1911-2005
Robert W. Smeaton, 93, of Oconomowoc, died March 10 at Middleton Village
Nursing Home. He was born Dec. 29, 1911, in Milwaukee, the son of Clarence
Smeaton and Ella (nee Davelaar). He attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering and earned a degree in Electrical Engineering. On Jun 14, 1941, he married Joy Authier. Robert and Joy were happily married for 63 years. His role as a loving husband and father was very important to him. They resided in Oconomowoc for 40 years and had many friends and acquaintances there.
Robert was a professional engineer, Robert made significant contributions to the field. His work as the editor of the Allis Chalmers Engineering Review was respected throughout the world. Several editions of the two engineering textbooks he edited, Motor Application Handbook and Switchgear Control Handbook were published. They were translated into many languages. Robert’s engineering background helped him make sure that the author's words were not only correct but were clearly understandable.
When Robert was 85 he bought a computer and learned to use it. He wrote e-mails to family and friends and eventually created a website to communicate some of his ideas. His website is http://www.oocities.org/rwsmeaton/ The website contains essays he wrote on subjects that interested him and he wanted to share with the world.
Robert had a special love for animals and always had a dog, several cats and a parrot under his care. Gardening and using his tractor were some of his favorite things to do during his retirement. He always looked forward to spring because he liked starting new plants.
Robert was a member of Ottawa Presbyterian Church. Survivors include his wife, Joy; children, Robert (Gillian) Smeaton of Tuscon, Ariz., Amy Hendrickson of Brookline, Mass., Glenn (Diane) Smeaton of Madison, Carol (Allen) Hambrecht of Middleton, Kathleen (Paul) King of Charleston, S.C., and George (Susan) Smeaton of Menomonie; and 16 grandchildren.
A memorial service was held March 14 at Ottawa Presbyterian Church. The Rev.
Lawrence Gaylord officiated. Burial was at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Milwaukee.