Richard Eldon Smith

SMITH, Richard E. Age 80 Of Kalamazoo, MI Passed away Wednesday October 21, 2009 at Rose Arbor, Kalamazoo, due to complications with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. He was born September 21, 1929, in Niles, MI., to Leroy Egar Smith and Alta Fern (Maggart) Smith. He was preceded in death by his son Steven C. Smith in 2006, his parents and seven brothers and sisters. During his high school years he was outstanding in track, basketball, and baseball and received numerous medals, including Athlete of the Year upon his graduation from Delton Kellogg High School. Mr. Smith served in the United States Air Force and was a veteran of the Korean Conflict, he also served in the Air National Guard in Battle Creek. He retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 1990. Richard built several homes in the Kalamazoo and Galesburg area. He had such enthusiasm for working with his hands. His carvings that he has given to many friends and family will be cherished forever. He had a passion for the Detroit Tigers baseball team and watching them win or lose. His family was so important to him and he enjoyed spending time with the many friends he made over the years. On June 15, 1951, he married the love of his life, Nancy L. Jones, with whom he celebrated 58 plus years of marriage. Richard and Nancy spent the winters in Florida and the last four years at Hope Woods, where they also made many friends. Also surviving him are his children, Sharon and Richard Santman, Kalamazoo, Sue Smith of Kalamazoo, Sharon (Vroegindewey) Smith, Illinois, nine grandchildren, Bryan and Jessica Santman, Kalamazoo, Amy and Kevin Hopp, Otsego, Eric and Kurt Smith of Illinois, Brad and Kelly Smith of Kalamazoo, Todd and Jeff of Kalamazoo, three great-grandsons, Andrew, Jonathan and Owen, and a dear sister and brother in law, Charlotte and Larry Bush of Kalamazoo. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. In keeping with his wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Ft. Custer Cemetery with full military honors on Friday, October 23, 2009, at 12 noon with Pastor Paul Fazio officiating. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Southwest Michigan Hospice or the Parkinson's Foundation. Arrangements by Avink Funeral Home, Schoolcraft, MI. The family will have a reception following the service at 3621 Thornhill Ave, Kalamazoo.