Firelands spotlights volunteer Robert Smith

SANDUSKY — For February, Firelands Health placed its monthly volunteer spotlight on Robert Smith. He began volunteering for Firelands in 2024 and "has quickly become an important part of the infusion and cancer center team," according to a health care organizational statement. Born in Youngstown and growing up in North Olmsted, he now lives in Huron with his wife, Nancy. They have four children and six grandchildren. "Rob has always focused on serving others," the statement read, noting he spent 33 years as a Presbyterian pastor and eight years teaching religion and philosophy at Wright State University. "Even after 21 years of retirement, Rob continues to give his time, compassion and wisdom as a volunteer," according to the statement. When he's not volunteering, Smith enjoys photography, carpentry, sailing and writing novels and poetry. Some of his creative work is in the Library of Congress, showing his lifelong love of storytelling. Smith has volunteered with many organizations over the years. He served on the boards of the Huron Playhouse where he also acted in summer theater, and the Huron Public Library. "Rob's favorite part of volunteering is meeting interesting people," the statement read. It continued: "He likes that every day brings new conversations and meaningful connections. He has great respect for the Firelands Health staff and is thankful for the chance to support their important work. Firelands Health is grateful for Rob's generosity, kindness and ongoing service and is proud to honor him as February's volunteer of the month."