Robert "Bob" Smart

Peacefully on Monday, July 11, 2022, Robert “Bob” Carpendale Smart passed from this earth at the Pembina-Manitou Health Center and into the loving arms of His Heavenly Father.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Violet Smart and his daughter and granddaughter Margaret and Danielle in 1991. He leaves to mourn his devoted wife Asta,  daughter Kathy (Greg), son David, son-in-law Darryl, grandchildren Ryan, Dean and Bronwyn, Christina, Samantha and Jamie (Marlayna and Anika), Kristin and Owen, Cynthia, Kelsey and Mike (Remy and River), Justin and Jessica (Hila and Margot), Jared and Hannah, and Bryce and Jess (Mackinley, Oaklyn and Saige); along with numerous extended family and friends.

Bob was born on January 3, 1930 at Bromhead. Saskatchewan.  He moved with his parents to Dominion City, Manitoba in the summer of 1931, where he spent his school years. Bob began his lifelong career with the Manitoba Hydro at the early age of 19.  In 1953 when he was on a work crew bringing power to the Lundar and Interlake area, he met Asta and she lit up his life. They were married in September 25, 1954 and lived in Alexander, Vita, and Grand Marais, before settling in and raising three children in their family home on 13th St. NW in Portage La Prairie in 1964.  After 53 years there, they moved to the Queen’s Court in 2017 and to the Dufferin Villa in 2022.

Bob was a real gentleman. He will always be remembered as a loving husband and a devoted father, grandfather and great grandfather.  He provided a wonderful home for his family and they are grateful for the many fond memories of holidays, outings and gatherings around the table with Mom’s wonderful meals.  Bob was a loyal and hard-working employee who enjoyed a solid career with the Hydro.  He was blessed to be able to take an early retirement from the Hydro as operating superintendent in 1985.  Over the years, he and mom enjoyed many trips to Fairmont Hot Springs, Branson, Florida and Arizona among many other places. Bob possessed a keen sense of humor, a quick wit and polished dancing skills.  He really enjoyed curling and the many friends he met over the years at the Portage Curling Club. He was blessed to be able to curl into his 80’s.  In Bob’s retirement, his grandchildren were his greatest joy and he felt fortunate to be able to spend a great deal of time with them.  Bob was a faithful member of the church. In 1991, the family experienced their most difficult time, with the tragic passing of Margaret and Danielle.  Bob often spoke of how he felt the Lord’s presence at this time, lifting burdens and covering him with His blanket of love.  Bob served with various organizations, including Meals on Wheels. He was a true gem and will be remembered for the love he had for his family and the care he provided for them throughout his life.  He is now reunited with his daughter Margaret and granddaughter Danielle in heaven.  The family would like to thank the Portage Hospital Extended Care Ward and the Manitou Health Center staff for their care of dad these past few months.

Funeral service will be held at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at 1:30 pm, with viewing prior to the service.  Interment will take place at the Oakville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to the Portage District General Hospital Foundation, 524 – 5th St.SE, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 3A8.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021