Robert J. 'Perch' Smith

WELLSBURG, NY - Robert J. “Perch” Smith, Age 84 of Comfort Hill Road, Wellsburg, NY passed away Saturday, March 3, 2012 at St. Joseph’s Hospital. He was born June 14, 1927 in Elmira, NY son of the late Howard A. and Rose Marie (Martin) Smith. He proudly served his country during WW II in the US Navy seeing action in the Pacific Theater of Operations. Perch and the former Sylvia L. Denton were married on June 29, 1948 and celebrated 63 years together. Perch retired in 1987 following 38 years of service from NYSEG where he worked as a lineman. He was a member of the NYSEG Quarter Century Club, member of the Wellsburg Volunteer Fire Department and was awarded lifetime membership in the department on March 28, 1974, member of the Elmira Elks Club B.P.O.E. #62, 35 year member of the Elmira Heights American Legion Post # 154 and was one of the founders and coaches of the Wellsburg Little League. In his spare time Perch loved hunting and fishing and was an avid bowler and golfer. Survivors include his loving wife Sylvia Smith of Wellsburg, two sons, Michael R. Smith of Lindley, NY and Mark R. Smith of Wellsburg, NY, grandsons, Christopher W. Smith of Horseheads, NY, Tim M. Smith of Carson City, NV several nieces and nephews and five Brittany Spaniel Canine Friends. His parents, and three brothers, Howard A, John J. and William F. Smith predeceased him. Family and friends are invited to call from 1 to 2 PM Monday, March 5, 2012 at the Roberts Funeral Home, Inc. 279 Main Street, Wellsburg, NY. Full military honors will be accorded at 2 PM at the funeral home. Interment will be at the convenience of the family in Ashland Cemetery, Wellsburg. Memorial contribution in Perch’s name may be made to the Wellsburg Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 23, Wellsburg, NY 14894.