Obituary of Robert Smith

Smith, Robert “Bob”, age 83 of Paterson peacefully passed away in Wayne on October 3, 2024 surrounded by his long-time companion Margie and his loving family.

Born in Paterson, Bob was a man of many talents building his family home in Wayne where he resided for 18 years before moving back to Paterson in 2004.

Bob was a well-respected detective with the homicide and major crimes unit for 24 years faithfully serving the city prior to becoming the PBA president of Local #1 for the last 10 years of his career before retiring in 2003. He was also co-chairman of the annual Blue Mass for 24 years and a member of the NJ State Police Honor Legion. During his legendary career he received many awards and citations for valor, always going above and beyond the call of duty.

After his retirement he enjoyed cruising the Caribbean and became well known for his Cadillacs. He enjoyed spending time with his family and attending his grandkids sporting events always showing up as their number one fan. He was a man of immense humor, and wisdom who loved singing, and his unwavering spirit will forever be remembered.(Do not delete this line. It does not print.  Text that is to appear on web must be entered after this line)«

Beloved companion of Marge DiPasquale of Paterson.  Bob is survived by the mother of his children, Doris Smith.  Loving father of Robert Smith Jr. & his wife, Kim of North Haledon, Steven Smith of Paterson, Kelli Ann Panico & her husband, Jack of Pequannock and the late William “Billy” Smith (2000).  Caring grandfather of Tiffany Marie, Robert III, Brittany Lynn, Tyler William, Katelyn, Giocchino and Gianna. Devoted great grandfather of Alex, Brianna, Arianna, Niko, Zane, Saint James and Mia. Caring step father of Bryan Di Pasquale & his wife, Anna and Anthony Di Pasquale & his wife, Lori.  Dear step grandfather of Michael, Nicholas and Brianna Di Pasquale. Devoted brother of Jimmy Smith and his wife, AnneMarie, and the late William Smith, the late Dina Gawley and her late husband, Charlie, and the late Roger Smith.  Dear brother-in-law of Michele Smith. Bob is also survived by several nieces and nephews.   

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral from the Festa Memorial Funeral Home, 111 Union Blvd, Totowa, on Tuesday at 9:15 AM.  Funeral Mass to follow at St. John's Cathedral, Paterson at 10:00 AM.  Entombment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Mausoleum, Totowa.  Friends may visit Monday 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and/or the Alzheimer’s Association would be appreciated.  For more information, go to www.festamemorial.com. One motto Bob lived by was “I did it my way”.