Robert Gene "Bob" Smith, 71, of Wichita, KS, passed away January 28, 2026, at Via Christie St. Francis Hospital.  He was born on September 27, 1954, in Denver, Colorado to William "Jack" and Nadene (Goodloe) Smith.

Bob graduated from Cheyenne East High School in 1972.  He became a Teamster, like his father, driving over the road for over 20 years.  He received many safe driving certificates including several million-mile awards.  After leaving Teamsters, Bob drove for J&H Trucking out of Andover, Ks.  His last trucking job was driving for Shaw Transport, delivering carpet, flooring and supplies.  He serviced towns from Emporia, KS, a lot of companies in Wichita and many other towns in the central Kansas area.  He was loved by his customers for going "above and beyond".

Bob knew how to fix just about anything and was always available when someone needed him.  He loved working in his shop, making plans, working with wood and making family games and heirlooms.

He received Christ as his Savior in 1994, in Atoka, TN and after moving to Wichita, became a member of Central Community Church.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bill, son, Matthew and daughter, Alicia and more recently his brother-in-law, Scott Griffith.  He was a loving husband, father, Papa, brother, uncle, brother-in-law and friend. We all loved him so much and he will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Vivia; son, Heath Beeman; daughter, Crystalynn Smith; sister and brother-in-law, Cathy (Smith) and Duke Petersen; 8 grandchildren: Gaven, Elyssa and Autumn, Averee and Jaiden, Cody, Cole and Carter; 5 great grandchildren: Colton and Piper, Jamison, John Lucas and Jeremiah.  He is also survived by his best friend, Mark and many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Cremation has taken place through Baker Funeral Home, and a Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, February 19th at 10:30 at the Central Community Chapel, 6100 W Maple St., Wichita, KS.  Memorials may be given to St. Jude's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.