Robert Lee “R.L.”, “Bob” Smith, 80, of North Platte passed away at his home on September 11, 2021. Bob was born December 16, 1940 to Edward and Margaret (Lefleur) Smith in Mt. Vernon, Washington. He attended schools in Walla Walla, Washington and then entered the National Guard.
Bob married Dorene Jensen on January 27, 1967 in Lexington, Nebraska. In 1968, they moved to Cozad when Bob hired out with the Union Pacific Railroad. Then they moved to North Platte and Bob continued to work for the UPRR until his retirement in 2002. Bob had been working for Pizza Hut as a delivery man for the past 10 years and truly loved his Pizza Hut family and customers. He enjoyed camping, working on his old cars and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Bob was a member of the Eagles and Moose lodges.
Bob is survived by his wife, Dorene, of North Platte; sons, Larry (Tammy) Smith and Rick Smith all of North Platte; grandchildren, Larry Smith, Jr., Joel Navarrete and Harley (Nicole) Smith all of North Platte; great-grandchildren, Chauncey Smith, Lexie Szwanek, Harley Smith, and newborn Lucas Smith; brother-in-law, Donald Jensen, North Platte; and numerous other family members and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Margaret Smith; siblings, Dennis Smith, Anette Deartell, Shirley Lanning and Ray Smith.
A memorial has been established in his name.
Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 16, 2021 at Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens, North Platte, with Pastor Gary Smith officiating. A reception will follow at the Eagles Club in North Platte. Visitation will be from noon – 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 15, at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home who is in charge of arrangements.