It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Robert Smith at the age of 59 after a courageous struggle with cancer. Rob was pre-deceased by the love of his life for 36 years, wife Gayle (2009), and his parents William (2000) and Evelyn (1991). Rob is survived by his sister Lisa Scheer, his brother Douglas Smith and several aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Rob was a proud member of CAW Local 444 and a loyal employee of Chrysler Canada until his retirement in 2003 when plant 6 was decommissioned. His passions were visible in his and Gayle's support and participation with the Essex County Field Naturalists' Club, the Windsor Flying Club where Rob earned his pilot's licence and sat on the Board of Directors and served as President, and with the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association. Rob and Gayle will be sorely missed by all who were privileged to work and play with them.
Rob fought his life-ending battle with cancer with the same dignity, strength and determination he used while supporting Gayle through her twenty-year battle with the same disease. Together they learned and documented any and all data to help defend themselves and others against it. Cancer would consume their health, but never their spirits or souls.
Special thanks to Rob's family, friends and caregivers got their love, support and kindness during his illness, particularly the staff of Lakeshore Shoppers Drug Mart, the WRCC chemo suite, Spring Holter Mount Sinai Hospital, Doctors Ghafour, Bergeron, Gyetvai, Gresko, Sheehan, Courey and Gallenger, VON nurses Jackie, Paula, Laura and Susan, hospice volunteers, the volunteers and staff of 4 West Windsor Regional Hospital Metropolitan Campus and the nurses and staff at Windsor Regional Hospital Malden Park 3 South B.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association, 104-2600 Airport Road, Windsor, ON N8V 1A1.
He has "slipped the surly bonds of earth... and touched the face of God.”
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