January 26, 1940 - January 31, 2022
Our hearts are breaking to announce the passing of such a wonderful husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather "Grandpa", great-grandfather "Gramps" and friend to many. He fought like a true warrior over the past few years but unfortunately his body couldn't fight any longer. He's now free of pain and at peace, waiting for us on the other side.
This amazing man had so many talents and meant so much to so many people. He was an Elk's Lodge member for over 50 years and also an oncology van driver for them. He was selfless and fierce in all that he did. His family was his number one priority. He enjoyed sharing his many passions with them, namely cooking, golfing & hockey were amongst his favourites.
The world was a better place with him in it and "What a Wonderful World" it was for us with him! We will forever miss him singing that song and many others to us as well as singing with the Elk's choir. Beloved husband of 62 years to Marie Smith (nee Perugini). Loving father to Leslie Smith (Jerry Luzzi) and Allyson Blake (Gerald). Special Chummy/Grandpa to Dustin Schneider, the apple of his eye his Chumette/Grandpa to Meghan Mac Duff (Steve Medai) and last but not least being a great-grandfather/Gramps to his beautiful little Nikkita "Nikki" Medai.
Predeceased by his parents John & Mary Smith. Dear brother of Lucille Clarke (Steve), Joan Blanchette (Ernie), late Robert Smith (Lucille), David Smith (Marie), Linda Sheehan (Bob) and Rosemarie Williamson (Dale). Cherished son-in-law of the late John and late Lisa Perugini. Brother-in-law of Sharon Poluk (Steve) and the late Jimmy Perugini. Richard will be missed and fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Special thanks to the staff at Sault Area Hospital on 3C, and the Bayshore nurses for their care and compassion over the past two years.
We will carry this amazing man in our hearts forever and will miss him every day but we take comfort in knowing that his courageous battle is finally over. He's our bright shining star up above and is watching over us all.
Members of the Elks Lodge #341 are requested to assemble at the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel on Friday, February 4, 2022 at 12:30 pm for a memorial service for the late Richard Smith. Elk members can reserve a spot by going to https://signup.com/go/pVZvQXL
Funeral service will take place at the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East 705-759-2522) on Friday, February 4, 2022 at 1:00 pm with Rev. Alex Saurianthadathil officiating. Please note that All Covid-19 restrictions apply, masks and social distancing are required. Friends are invited to reserve a seat for the service by going to https://signup.com/go/pVZvQXL
Friends are invited to view the service online on Friday, February 4, 2022 at 1:00 pm. The service can be viewed anytime up to 90 days. Go to www.funeraweb.tv and select Richard's name to view the service.
Memorial contributions to the Elk's Lodge #341 or the Group Health Centre Trust Fund would be appreciated by the family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Smith family.