Richard R. Smith

December 14, 1944 - December 30, 2016

Richard R. Smith, 72 of Amasa, passed away on Friday, December 30, 2016 at Aspirus Hospital in Iron River. He was born on December 14, 1944 in South Bend, Indiana, son of the late Robert and Joan (Nowaczewski) Smith. He attended LaSalle school in South Bend, Indiana. Richard married Bernadette Wickman in Crystal Falls on August 20, 1976 and they had spent more than 40 wonderful years together. Richard worked as a janitor for the Forest Parks Schools for many years before returning back to remodeling and carpentry which was his true calling. In his free time he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, canoeing and traveling. He was very handy and a jack of many trades; he loved fixing things and his time working as a gun smith. Was adventurous, loved his motorcycle and preferred the back roads over any interstate. More than anything he loved to cook for and spend time with his family. A mostly silent, yet kind man with great advice if you wanted it otherwise would let you figure it out on your own. Richard, was always willing to help anyone. Richard is survived by his loving wife, Bernadette Smith of Amasa; his children, Bill (Jeanelle) Hautala of Crystal Falls; Anastasia (David) Johnson of Iron River; Grandchildren, Ashley(Cody Campbell) and Zach Hautala, Rus and Halley Johnson; Brothers, Dennis (Mary) Smith of Hamilton, Michigan and David (Brenda) Smith of Mishawaka, Indiana; he is further survived by many special nieces and nephews Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Brian Hautala, a brother, Donald Smith, and a sister, Dorothy Pinkert The visitation will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2017 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Nash Funeral Home in Crystal Falls. The Funeral Service will follow at 7:00 pm at the funeral home. Rev. Micheal Laakko will officiate. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in his memory. Condolences may be expressed to the family of Richard Smith online at www.nashfuneralhome.net The family has entrusted the Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Crystal Falls with the funeral arrangements.