SMITH, Robert Martin “Bob”
Bob’s family wishes to announce his passing away on April 13, 2024, at South Shore Regional Hospital. Bob died due to complications of both pneumonia and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).
Bob was born on December 15, 1947, in Yarmouth, NS. He was the son of the late Glendon W. Smith and Lorraine (Martin) Smith. Bob is survived by his wife, Carol (Gibson); and daughters, Nicole Smith, Bridgewater, Kara Smith, Middle Cornwall, and Rachelle Barkhouse (Robbie Campbell), Bridgewater. He is also survived by his much-loved granddaughters, Karlee Barkhouse, Heckman’s Island and Ivy Macdonald, Bridgewater. His surviving siblings are Gail (Jimmy) Webster, Boynton Beach, Fl; Karen (Rusty-deceased) Livermore, Concord, N.C; Maureen (John) Nolasco, Wasaga Beach, ON; Deidre (Gordon) Wilson, Culloden, N.S. He was proud to be Uncle Bobby to numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Bernadette (Bunny) Smith and his in laws on the Gibson side. He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Glendon “Skipper” and Ronald; niece, Sarah Nolasco; his mother and father-in-law, Joan and Andy Gibson and brother-in-law George Gibson.
Bob and Carol met and married in Digby, NS almost 54 years ago and in the following 3 ½ years, three daughters were born. Bob was very proud of his daughters. He, one time, spoke of missing out on important events in the lives of his daughters due to work taking precedence. Despite that, there were many memorable occasions, especially the holidays and vacations spent at the Smith family cottage in Digby. Known as Grandpa Bob to his granddaughters Karlee and Ivy, he spent many hours with them storytelling, playing games and working on creative projects in his workshop. He had the special nickname of Pishnut for them when they were younger, and both were his pride and joy.
Bob’s career dream came true when he began working with the Bridgewater Police Service in April 1971. Through his years there, he advanced in rank from Constable, to Corporal, to Sergeant to Deputy Chief. Over the years he served under several police chiefs who he respected and whose guidance he valued. He enjoyed mentoring many of the younger officers who joined the service and the camaraderie he shared with his fellow officers and the office staff members. He was a dedicated member of the Bridgewater Police Service for 37 years.
Bob’s love of the outdoors was evident in his activities, including hunting, fishing, camping, and gardening. Many happy hours were spent at his Lapland camp, Buck Rut Lodge, and the Smith family cottage. He also enjoyed building and with the assistance of friends and family he built his camp and home in Cherry Hill.
A public graveside service will be held at Brookside Cemetery, Bridgewater at 1 p.m. on April 23, with Rev. Willis Ott officiating. Reception to follow the service at Osprey Ridge to reminisce and share stories and memories. No flowers, at Bob’s request. For those who wish to make a donation in his memory, his favorite charities were Soul’s Harbour Rescue Mission, The Salvation Army and Canadian Wildlife Federation or feel free to donate to the charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home in Bridgewater. Online condolences may be made at: www.sweenysfuneralhome.com