Robert J. “Bobby” Smith, 56, of Kansas City, MO, passed away on February 2, 2022. Bobby was born in Smithville, MO, to Robert J. and Kathleen F. Smith on July 10, 1965. Bobby was a life long resident of Kansas City, MO. After graduating from Winnetonka High School, he accepted a position at the Kansas City Police Department where he spent the next 36 years. He started in building maintenance, moved to being a department carpenter, and then spent time as a concealed camera tech. For the last 17 years, the Crime Lab was his “home away from home”, and he truly enjoyed the team he worked with.
Bobby had a deep love for animals. He spent many years raising and showing St. Bernards. He raised many St. Bernards throughout his life including Babs, Eeesha, Beanie, Treee, Red Dog, Boodle, Shoogie, Buster, Zee, Blue, Gunda, Cooper, Coola, and Igor, as well as his honorary St. Bernards, Australian Cattle Dogs, Maggie and Riggs. He was also an active member of the National St. Bernard Club of America and the Heart of America St. Bernard Club.
He had many hobbies that he enjoyed including traveling, building, watching the K.C. Chiefs, and auto repairs. He also really enjoyed hanging Christmas lights every winter.
Bobby was preceded in death by nephew, T.J. Binkley; brother, Shayne Smith; father, Robert J. Smith; mother, Kathleen F. Smith; grandfather, Frank Vernon; grandmother, Opal Vernon; grandmother, Helen Smith; and stepfather, James Cook.
Bobby is survived by his best friend and partner, Wende Wagner; sister, Cindy Edwards; niece, Meghaan (Dale) Binkley-Hopper; great-nephew, Harrison Hopper; stepbrother, Jimmy Cook; stepsister, Vicky Sims; and many other nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 2 p.m. at McMurray Methodist Church, 25 Eugene Field Rd., Kansas City, MO 64119. Memorial contributions can be made to the St. Bernard Club of America rescue.
Arrangements in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
Our Sincere Condolences
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Rebecca Lobina
Bobby, you were so loved. You had a big heart and would help a one who needed it! You are in God’s hands. He needs you to help with the building the new Heaven. You got this!
Mona
My sincerest condolences. Bobby always had a light heart and smiling soul. You will be so missed Bobby. I will cherish our memories we made in our short time we knew each other.
Chris Kochel
I worked with Bobby and he was always somebody I liked to run into in the lunch room. He was always in a good, laidback mood. He also was willing to help with anything that was needed. He will be missed.
Jessica H.
Bobby was a friend I met when he came to work for me at the lab. He was always such a joy to be around. I regret that I wasn’t in town to give my condolences. He will be missed and always have a place in my heart and thoughts. – Wayne Staley
