Bob Smith

Bob Smith, 68, of La Grange, died Saturday, July 9, 2016. Bob was born in Austin on May 6, 1948, the son of Bobby Joe Smith and Joan (Wells) Smith. Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1969 and served until 1971. He did his basic training in El Paso and was transferred to Ft. Leonard Wood in Missouri. There he was assigned to an engineering group and then transferred to Ft. Hood. In Ft. Hood, he was with the 2nd Armored Division. Bob began his career as a power lineman for Lubbock Power and Light in Lubbock. He was required to climb poles to fix electricity in all kinds of dangerous weather and conditions. He became very interested and proficient in the safety of his fellow linemen and decided to make this his career. He then worked for the Texas A&M Extension service which took him all over Texas; teaching proper safety techniques for working with electricity. Later, Bob worked for Blue Bonnet Electric for more than a decade. He was always committed to the safety of those who worked in what could be a dangerous field. Bob was a proud son of Texas who enjoyed sporting events, hunting, antiquing and spending time with friends. He is survived by two daughters: Jennifer Callazo and husband, Israel, of Austin; Leah Smith-Varva and husband, David, of Brenham; siblings: Wilber Smith and wife, Geri, of Florida; Frances Smith of Austin; and Richard Smith and wife, Dinny, of Pflugerville; numerous nieces, nephews and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2016 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, 4523 Tannehill Lane, Austin, Texas 78721 (www.salvationarmyusa.org). Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com. Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home in La Grange is in charge of arrangements.