Robert “Bob” Smith, age 77, of Solon Springs, WI, passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.

Robert Michael Smith was born March 15, 1948, in Superior, WI, the son of Robert A. and Loretta L. (Kilcher) Smith. Bob was raised in Solon Springs and from an early age had a gift for working on anything with an engine. At the age of 12 he put together his first dune buggy from spare vehicle parts. He joined the Solon Springs Volunteer Fire Department in his teens and would make this a lifelong commitment.After graduating from high school, Bob purchased the Shell Station in Solon Springs and operated that until he was called into service by the U.S. Army on April 30, 1968. Bob served during the Vietnam War was spent 10 months overseas. For his service to our country his was honored with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and two overseas bars. Bob was honorably discharged on April 5, 1970. He returned to Solon Springs and came home to a 302 Boss Mustang that he had ordered and loved to drive. He also was active with Stock Car Racing in Superior during the 1970’s. On March 13, 1971, Bob was joined in marriage to Christine A. Bach at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior, WI. Bob continued to run his service station until there was a fire at the business in 1994. He worked out of his home for a time and then went to work with Rubin Johnson & Son. Bob finished his working career with the Village of Solon Springs. He also served as Chief of the Solon Springs Fire Department and as Fire Warden. Bob enjoyed camping with his family, going fishing with family and friends, taking his 1941 Willy’s Jeep partridge hunting, and being the camp cook at the Smith Ranch. Bob knelt for the cross and stood for the flag. God was always first in his life and his family was second.

Bob is survived by his wife of 54 years, Chris; three children, Lucas Smith, Jenna Smith, Melanie (Adam Briester) Smith, all of Solon Springs; six grandchildren, Caden, Jonah, Owen “Bird”, Sophia, Theddeus and Theodore; one sister, Diane Blaylock of Solon Springs; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son, Daniel Robert Smith.

A graveside service will be held for Bob at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Beaver Brook Township of Washburn County, WI. Pastor Jason Clifton will officiate. Military honors will be accorded by the State of Wisconsin Military Funeral Honors Program.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Solon Springs Volunteer Fire Department, 9083 Baldwin Ave., Solon Springs, WI 54873.

Bob’s family wishes to extend a thank you to the Solon Springs Fire Department and Essentia Hospice for their help and kindness through Bob’s illness.

Last Update: Aug 04, 2025 7:16 am CDT