Robert A. Smetana

In Loving Memory of Robert "Bob" Smetana

September 15, 1948 - October 13, 2025

Robert "Bob" Smetana, of Downers Grove, Illinois, passed away peacefully from complications related to pancreatic cancer, on October 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 77 years old.

Born in Cicero to Anton and Emily Smetana on September 15, 1948, Bob grew up with his brothers Richard (deceased), James, and Ronald. From a young age, he learned the value of hard work, loyalty, and humor - qualities that stayed with him for life.

He studied Accounting at Northern Illinois University and he met the love of his life, Linda Skowron, his wife of 54 years, while working together at Hillman's grocery store. Upon graduating, he joined the army and together they moved to California. Upon returning to Illinois a few years later, they built a family filled with laughter, unwavering devotion, and countless shared adventures.

For 45 years, Bob worked at the Internal Revenue Service, a career that perfectly suited his sharp mind and steady patience. He took great pride in helping friends and family and every spring, he could be found in his office surrounded by stacks of forms, happily filing returns for anyone who asked.

The epitome of family man, Bob prioritized being present and active in his children's lives over anything. He cherished family vacations all over the world but especially to Marco and Sanibel Islands where you could find him floating in the pool or cozying up with a good book. He was an avid Chicago sports fan who enjoyed a good garage sale, a better deal, and above all, spoiling his grandchildren.

Bob was the family's role model, handyman, and financial advisor, the one everyone called when something broke, when they needed guidance, or when they just needed to hear his calm, reassuring voice.

Above all, Bob will be remembered as the most generous, kindest, most loyal, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He never spoke ill of anyone, always listened first, and believed in doing the right thing quietly, without any fanfare, and would do absolutely anything for the people he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda, and their four children: Jennifer (Bill) Beville, Kathleen (Geoff) Anderman, Thomas (Rachelle) Smetana, and Kristin Smetana. Bob was a proud and adoring Grandpa, "Pa" to nine grandchildren: Abigail and Grace Beville; Caroline, Gabriel, and Violet Anderman; Robert and Emilia Smetana; and Theodore and Genevieve Smetana.

Bob spent most of his life in Downers Grove, where he was a neighbor and friend to many. His legacy lives on through his family - in their laughter, their strength, and their endless love for one another.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held in Downers Grove @ St. Joseph Church on October 24, 2025. There will be a visitation at 9:30 am followed by a funeral mass at 10:30 am. Family and friends are invited to share stories and memories in honor of a man who made every day brighter just by being himself.

Arrangements by Adams-Winterfield & Sullivan Funeral Home. 630-968-1000 or www.adamswinterfieldsullivan.com

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