Robert Keith Smith

Robert Keith Smith passed away at home on April 3, 2021 from causes incident to age. Bob was born August 11, 1932 in Salt Lake City to Edwin Woodruff and Ethel Olga Akert Neff Smith. He was their seventh child and fifth boy. He was raised on the family farm and this began his lifelong love of growing and caring for plants. He was very active in the FFA at Granite High School, serving as Vice-President, and graduated in May 1950.

Bob met Carol Cope Hilton while working as a model in a school art class. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on February 21, 1952. Bob began working as a seed technologist in Salt Lake and eventually went to work for Northrup King in Boise and then Twin Falls. Their oldest son was born in Salt Lake and the other three in Twin Falls. In 1967 Bob and Carol made the decision to leave Idaho to join Bob’s brothers in the nursery business at J & L Garden Center in Bountiful. Bob worked in many aspects of the business but was always known as the one to repair what others broke. While their boys were still at home the family built a cabin with extended family and made many good memories in Causey Estates. Bob also enjoyed hunting in younger years and fishing throughout his life, and spent many hours in his woodworking shop turning out beautiful items for family and friends. Bob always maintained a beautiful yard and grew much produce in his garden. In later years he would supply many of the family and friends with fruits, vegetables and nuts.

The family was active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Bob served in many different positions. Two of his favorites were High Priest Group Leader and Webelos Leader.

In 2018 Bob and Carol moved from their Centerville home of more than 50 years to Creekside Assisted Living in Bountiful, where they have received wonderful, loving support as his health declined.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Carol; sons: Charles (Rebecca), Steven (Susie), Russ (Karen Dyer) and Todd; and two daughters of the heart: Sherrie Smith and Kinue Takaishi. Also 12 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, six brothers, and one grandchild. Bob was the last of his generation, having also lost all brothers- and sisters-in law.

A viewing and visitation will be held at Russon Mortuary and Crematory, 295 North Main, Bountiful on Thursday, April 8, 2021 10:00-11:15. Burial will follow at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.