Robert F. Smith

Robert Smith was called into the USMC during the Korean War in the early 1950's. He attended boot camp at Paris Island, SC. and became a meteorologist at MC Air Base, Cherry Point, SC. Bob served from 1951- 1953

Upon Honorable discharge, Bob returned to Bay Shore and started his very successful careers in sales, and his own businesses- The Pennysaver News of Brookhaven, Inc. and Eastern Web Printing Press, from the early 1960's - 1988 . He was prominent in the NYS and Suffolk County Democratic Party, serving as Democratic Committeeman for the Town of Islip for many years. Using his newspaper's editorial department was a major reason that the Democratic Party was so successful on L.I. He helped Governors Carey, Cuomo, Congressman Otis Pike and President Jimmy Carter to get elected, as well as many other local elected officials of both parties to get elected. He chose the officials who he thought were the best one suited for the position.

Bob was a major contributor to many charities throughout the state and county. He was a mainstay of the largest fundraiser on Long Island, Pinter Tournament of Stars. Governor Hugh Carey appointed Bob as Commissioner of The Long Island State Park Commission. He served in this position from 1976 to 1988, having been reappointed by Governor Mario Cuomo.

Robert was the 2nd son of Richard H. & Honora Norma Smith's 7 children. Born in Pittsburgh, PA. on October 4th, 1929, Bob moved to Brightwaters and Bay Shore in 1937. He attended St. Patrick's grammar school and then attended BSHS and graduated in 1949. Bob played 4 years on the football team, under coach Cliff LaPlatney as a center and linebacker for the team. He played basketball as center for 4 years under coach Ralph Elliot for his last two years. Bob was a class officer and appeared in many of the variety shows while in high school. Bob was married to Loretta and had 4 wonderful children- Timothy, Laura, Mark & Glenn, and six grandchildren. Robert passed away on February 11th, 1988.