Richard Smith

Richard J. “Dick” Smith, age 82, of Van Wert, OH, went to his heavenly home at 10:51 AM Friday, February 02, 2018 at his residence while surrounded by his loving family. Dick was born March 23, 1935 in Van Wert, OH to the late Irene (Mundy) & Glenn Smith, Sr. and was raised by his aunt and uncle, Mae and Clarence Gribler.

On June 19, 1954, Dick married the love of his life, Karen L. Brockert, and together they had five children. He was a Computer Programmer, and was a member of First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, OH.

Dick loved music and sang in the church choir up until 4 years ago. He enjoyed traveling, fishing, reading, and was an avid Buckeyes and Reds fan. For the past 15 years, Dick has done close to 100 pieces of scroll work, of which ¾ were different patterns of crosses, which he gave to others.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Karen of Van Wert; five children and his granchildren: Vicky (Tedd) Dunno of Arizona and her daughter, Tawney Jo;  Dianne (Jeff) Unterbrink of Bourbon, IN and their children, Lorna & Austin;  Mark (Sheila) Smith of Warsaw, IN and their children, Jeremy, Cortney & Lydon;  Richard B. (Cathy) Smith of Monroeville, IN and their children, Shubitha & Natasha; Jon Eric (Trisha) Smith of Van Wert, OH and their children, Kolton & Keenan; 9 great grandchildren; ; brother, James (Marcia) Smith of Van Wert, OH; sister, Barbara (Ned) Runyon of Wolcottville, IN; ,as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by two brothers and four sisters.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 am Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert with Rev. Gus Cristo-Baker presiding. Visitation will be Tuesday from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at the church.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to First United Methodist Church or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.