Obituary of Norman Rex Smith

Smith, Norman Rex, 88, of St. Pete Beach, FL passed away Saturday, January 28, 2023 in his home. Born in Detroit, MI, he graduated from Pontiac high school and subsequently received a number of degrees including a BS in Chemistry, LLB and JD of Laws, MA of Adult Education, and Ph.D. in Education. Norman successfully passed bar exams and was qualified to practice in Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, New York, Florida, as well as the US Patent Office, and US Supreme Court.

Norman had a very successful business career. He held various executive positions at Procter & Gamble including work in Germany, Belgium, Italy, the UK, and the US. He was a Vice President of Product Development at Stepan Company, Vice President & General Manager at BF Goodrich, and President & CEO of Catalytica Advanced Technologies. Over the course of his career, Norman was granted a number of patents including one for “Mr. Clean."

Following his professional career, Norman was a member of ASPEC and held executive positions at Eckerd College including ASPEC Director, Associate Dean, and Director of the Center for the Applied Liberal Arts. He was also an adjunct professor and discussant colleague in various courses.

Norman was a great supporter of the arts and a devoted family man, married to his wife Mirella Cimato for 52 years.

A memorial service will be held March 17th at 4:30pm with a reception immediately following at the Wireman Chapel at Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave S, St. Petersburg. The family will receive friends prior to the ceremony starting at 3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Eckerd College (in care of the Norman R. Smith Engaged Learning Endowed Fund) or The St. Petersburg Opera Guild (in care of the Norman Fund). Checks made payable to “Eckerd College” can be mailed to Eckerd College Advancement Office, 4200 54th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33711. Checks made payable to “St. Pete Opera Guild” can be mailed to SPOG, PO Box 66681, St. Pete Beach, FL, 33706.

To view a RECORDING of the Service: CLICK HERE (Available for 90 Days)