Robert L. Smith, 85, of Westport, passed away after a brief illness on Monday, March 16, 2015.
Born in Fall River, son of the late John A. and Annie M. (Tripp) Smith, he was a lifelong resident of Westport.
He graduated from Westport High School in 1947, attended Dean Academy in Franklin, Ma and received an Associate Degree from the Stockbridge School of Agriculture: UMass Amherst in 1949, a member of the Alpha Tau Gamma Fraternity, and a member of the UMass football team. A veteran of the Korean Conflict, he served his country in the US Naval Air Force.
Mr. Smith was a self-employed family owner of Long Acres Farm, Westport, Ma until 1983, now the Westport Rivers Vineyard and Winery. He enjoyed Westport town politics, serving on the School Committee along with several terms as the Town Moderator. Mr. Smith was a Past Master of the Westport Noquochoke A.F. & A.M. Lodge, a member of the Westport Grange, and a Board of Director’s member of the Bank of Boston/Fall River Trust Company. He was an avid boatsman, enjoyed vacations on Marco Island, Patriots and Red Sox fan, and loved the lifelong opportunities of farming; involving squash, potatoes, pumpkins, dairy, poultry, and growing the famous Westport “Macomber” white turnip until his passing.
He is survived by his former wife, Eleanor W. Smith of Westport; three sons: Robert G. Smith (and late wife K. Claire) of Tiverton, RI; John L. Smith and Bruce T. Smith of Westport; his daughter: Robin Smith Poirier and her husband Garren of Killington, VT; grandson, Michael Hopkins; three granddaughters, Elysia Rodriguez, Briana Rodriguez, and Kathryn Hopkins; and two great grandsons: Dane and Brandon-Jean Rodriguez.
He was the grandfather of the late; Heather Hopkins and Kathryn Rodriguez.
At the family’s request, calling hours are respectfully omitted.
Memorial service for family and friends will be announced at a later date. Private interment will be at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Rutland County Humane Society 765 Stevens Rd. Pittsford, VT 05763 or FarmVetco.org