Robert S. Smetzer

Robert S. Smetzer, 93, of Marseilles, died Thursday, April 30, at his home. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am, Tuesday, May 5, at St. Columba Church with the Rev. David Kipfer officiating. Visitation will be from 5-8 pm Monday, May 4 at Ottawa Funeral Home with prayers at 5:00. Robert was born in Festus, Missouri to James and Fannie (Sailor) Smetzer. He married Helene Barker at St. Joseph's Church in Marseilles and they spent 64 wonderful years together. Robert was an Alumnus of the Ottawa High School Graduating Class of 1934. He farmed for over 75 years from the age of 18 all the way up until a few months ago and was also a member of Farm Bureau. He is survived by his Wife Helene; two daughters, Mary (William) Gardner of Spring Hill, FL, Nancy (Tom) Koch of LaSalle; one granddaughter, Heather McClure; a great granddaughter, Harleigh McClure and two sisters, Katherine Gee of Streator and Dorothy Green of Van Nuys, CA. He is preceded in death by a brother James. Pallbearers will be Gary and Steve Smetzer, David Gee, Bob Von Ruden, Ken Thompson, and Dennis DeGraze. Memorial may be directed to the Donor's Choice.