Mesa, Arizona – Robert Dean Smith, aged 75, died on , in Mesa, Arizona, following a several-month illness. Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, Smith’s life spanned decades of significant social and technological change in the United States, culminating in a retirement spent in the American Southwest.
While details surrounding his life and career remain limited, available records indicate a life marked by both geographic mobility and professional stability. Smith was born in 1950, a period of post-war economic expansion and shifting demographics in the United States. He spent formative years in Louisiana before relocating to other parts of the country.
Information gleaned from multiple obituary listings suggests there may be multiple individuals named Robert Dean Smith who have passed away in recent years, creating potential for confusion. A Robert Dean Smith, born , passed away in Conifer, Colorado, on , at the age of 69. This individual, also known as “Bob,” was born in Niles, Michigan, and raised in Valparaiso, Indiana, before moving to Denver, Colorado, in 1980. He retired from the Xcel Power Company and enjoyed hobbies including motorcycle riding, raising German Shepherds, and woodworking. A celebration of life was held on , at The Dirty Duck bar in Denver.
Another Robert Dean Smith died in Hudson, Wisconsin, on . Born in Madison, Wisconsin, on , he was married for 62 years to a woman named Penny and had three children: Brent, Mathew, and Elizabeth. He also had eight grandchildren and one great-grandson.
A third Robert Dean Smith passed away in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, in 2024, having been born in 1953. Details regarding this individual are scarce.
The recent passing of Robert Catterall, reported in several news outlets, highlights the increasing volume of obituaries published daily and the challenges in distinguishing between individuals with similar names. Catterall, who died in 2025, was remembered for his routines and close relationship with his wife, Marcia.
The proliferation of online obituary databases, such as Legacy.com, reflects a growing trend towards digital memorialization. These platforms allow families to share information about the deceased, receive condolences, and preserve memories for future generations. However, the ease with which information can be published online also raises concerns about accuracy and the potential for misinformation.
The death of Robert Dean Smith in Arizona, while not immediately linked to any major geopolitical events, underscores the broader demographic trends shaping the United States. The aging of the Baby Boomer generation continues to drive an increase in mortality rates, placing greater demands on healthcare systems and social services. Arizona, in particular, has experienced significant population growth in recent decades, attracting retirees seeking a warmer climate and lower cost of living. This influx of new residents has had a profound impact on the state’s economy, infrastructure, and political landscape.
The choice of Mesa, Arizona, as a place of residence for Smith suggests a preference for the Sun Belt region, a trend observed among many Americans in recent years. The Sun Belt states – including Arizona, Nevada, Texas, and Florida – have benefited from economic growth, job creation, and a relatively mild climate. However, these states also face challenges related to water scarcity, urban sprawl, and political polarization.
The details surrounding Smith’s illness, while not publicly disclosed, are representative of the health challenges faced by an aging population. Chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, are leading causes of death in the United States, and the prevalence of these conditions is expected to increase in the coming years. Access to affordable healthcare, preventative care, and long-term care services remains a critical issue for many Americans.
The passing of Robert Dean Smith serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the importance of cherishing relationships with family and friends. While his story may not be widely known, We see representative of the millions of lives lived and lost each year, each with its own unique experiences, challenges, and contributions to society.
