June 4, 1928 — April 18, 2015

Richard N. Smith, Sr., 86 of Dowagiac passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family, Saturday, April 18, 2015.

Per his family’s wishes, a private cremation burial will take place at a future date in Allen (Red Mill) Cemetery on Elm Street, north of Dowagiac. Clark Chapel & Cremation Services, 405 Center Street, Dowagiac is serving the family. Those wishing to leave a memory or condolence of Dick online may do so at www.clarkch.com.

Richard was born June 4, 1928 in Dowagiac to the late Virgil and Angela “Nelli” (Ptaszkiewicz) Smith. He was a 1945 graduate of Dowagiac Central High School and a veteran of the United States Army. After returning from the service Dick married Doris Riggs on November 13, 1948. Together they had three children; Rick, Randy and Margie.

Richard had a long career in production management starting at Rudy Manufacturing and later at Consolidated Die Cast, from which he retired in 1986. He was a lifelong sports fan, golfer and avid hunter and fisherman.

In the early years of his retirement he practically lived on the piers in St. Joseph and South Haven fishing for perch and salmon. When he wasn’t fishing he was playing golf in the Dowagiac Senior League. The annual deer hunting trip was always the highlight of his year. He was always packed and ready to go to Deer Camp weeks before anybody else even started. In his last years he enjoyed his great grandchildren immensely and they adored him.

Richard is survived by his wife Doris of 66 years. He also leaves behind a son, Richard (Terri) Smith, Jr. of Dowagiac, daughter Marjorie Smith of Dowagiac, grandchildren Heather (Chris) Cooper of Plainwell, Brian Smith of Portage, Matthew Smith of Dowagiac and four great grandchildren; Elise and Tess Cooper and Piper and Angelus Smith. Also surviving are a brother Donald (Mozelle) Smith of Dowagiac, sisters Patty (Ollie) Shaer of Dowagiac and Cathy (Roger) Williamson of Conway, AR. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his son Randall, brothers Robert (Muriel) and Gerald (Sharlene) and a sister Marilyn (Don) Wilson.