Robert J. Smart

Robert J. Smart, 70, was born to Eternal Life, with his family and closest friends at his side, on Thursday, June 20, 2024. Bob was born in Janesville, WI, on May 3, 1954, the son of Jack and Helen (Burrow). On December 7, 1974, he married Ann E. (Fauerbach) in Waukesha. Bob's proudest accomplishment was the company, Waukesha Machine and Tool Company, joining his Father-in-Law, Dick Fauerbach. Ann would join the day-to-day operations in 1979. Bob was a pioneer in the work holding industry. He surrounded himself with like-minded people and failure was not in his vocabulary. He was at the forefront of manufacturing innovations and was widely respected throughout the machine tool world. Even more importantly Bob was a true rock for his family, friends and coworkers. A beloved father, grandfather and uncle that prioritized the well-being of everyone in his family. 

Bob is survived by his sons, Michael (Karla) of Big Sky, MT, and Jeffrey of Waukesha. He was the proud Poppy to Tanner and Landon. He will be missed by his sister Sally Cherek, brothers Steve (Laurie) and John (Holly), Sister-in-Law, Kathleen Best (Doc), Brother-in-Law Archie Buth, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by the love of his life Ann, just 18 months ago, his parents, sisters Mary Black and Barb Buth, Sister-in-Law Mary Ellen Aspenson, Brother-in-Law Tom Cherek and his loyal Springer Spaniels Chips, Buddy, and Guffy. He will be terribly missed by his dogs Gus and Bucky who did the morning walk to get the newspaper with him daily. 

The family would like to thank the staff at AngelsGrace Hospice in Oconomowoc for their wonderful care in Bob's final days. 

A private burial will take place in Waukesha with a Celebration of Life at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to Catholic Memorial High School.