Obituary of Robert Perkin Smith

Robert Perkin Smith was born in Cape Tormentine, NB on September 4, 1946. He was the son of the late Vincent and Phyllis Smith of Cape Tormentine, NB.

Robert was a man of honour and integrity. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces Armoured Corp in 1966 and then in 1972 remustered to topographical surveyor in the Mapping and Charting Establishment, the role in which he served until his retirement.

A decorated military veteran of 36 years, Robert traveled domestically and internationally in service to his country. After retirement, he continued to provide leadership within his community by devoting his time in support of the Royal Canadian Army Cadets, St. John Ambulance, and the Grand Orange Lodge of Canada. He also took great pride in his position on the vestry and choir of St. John’s The Evangelist Church. Throughout these endeavours, Robert built an extensive network of friends and colleagues who will surely have fond memories of times spent together.

Robert joins his wife of 47 years, Heather (DeForest) Smith but leaves behind his children, Craig Smith of Waterford, NB and
Nadine Smith and her husband Alan D'Souza of Ottawa, ON; his brother, Byron Smith and his wife Pia of Ottawa ON; his sisters: Carol Dempsey of Amherst NS, Heather Murray and her husband Jim of Bayfield NB and Cindy Sprague and her partner Paul of Lower Sackville, NS. As a loving and devoted grandfather, he will be immensely missed by Jenna, Brice, Kieran, Harper, Camden and Kellen. His dear companion, June Betts of Saint John, NB also mourns his departure.

Robert Perkin Smith of Waterford, New Brunswick passed away unexpectedly on January 17, 2019 at the age of 72.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care of Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex (506-433-1176) from where visitation will be held on Thursday, January 24, 2019 from 1-3 and 6-8pm. The Beaconsfield Orange Lodge, Waterford #78 will hold a tribute Thursday evening at 5:45.

A Celebration of Robert's life will be held from Wallace Community Chapel on Friday, January 25, 2019 at 11:00am.

If you are considering making a memorial donation, the family has recommended the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the New Brunswick Regiment, Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps. Condolences and donations in Robert's memory can be made at wallacefuneralhome.com