It is with sorrow that I notify his many friends in the chess community, that Dallas Icon
Robert “Bob” Smeltzer, the USCF record holder with 2266 rated games played in one year, passed
on Sunday, March 28, in Richardson, Texas. He had been very ill for several weeks. His last
tournament was a bliz event on March 7 at the Dallas Chess Club. On February 12th, Bob
and the club celebrated his 80th birthday with plenty of cake, chess, and memories.
It was an honor to know this gentleman, whom I will always consider a dear friend.
Funeral details are pending. Tonight, the Dallas Chess Club will be hosting a G/10 tournament
in his honor.
Rest in peace, Bob, and plenty of checkmates in Heaven.
Rob Jones