Bobby Leroy Smith

Bobby Smith, 85, of Oak Grove, MN, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026 with his family by his side. He was born on March 1, 1941, in Gary, Indiana.

Bobby proudly served his country in the Marines from 1961-1963 with two tours to Vietnam as a missile defense technician, attaining the rank of Tech Sergeant. Following his military career, he spent two years at Prairie View A & M University. He began his post military career at General Electric where he gained experience as one of the early computer programmers, he was then recruited to Medtronic where he developed three patents before becoming a project manager. He went on to become one of the most successful Black project managers at Guidant before retiring in 2003.

Bobby's interests extended to science fiction and aviation where he earned his private pilot license. He enjoyed spending time with his family and always had words of wisdom to share.

Bob was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Winter; brother, Paul Smith; sister, Ann Conner. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Janice; his children, Torrence Smith (Barbara), Troy Smith (Kelly); grandchildren, Christian, Caitlin, Maya,Tyler, Trey, Sydney; great- grandchildren, Allyna, Analyn, Elouise, Nova, Phoenix.

Interment with military honors will be held Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. We welcome friends and family for a Celebration of Life in Madison, Wisconsin, on Saturday, October 17. Please message for details if planning on attending.