Richard Smith

Richard Duane Smith, age 88, passed away peacefully in Florida at the home of his son, Steve, on October 4 ^th , 2017. He was born in Battle Creek on October 9, 1928 to Frederick and Olga Smith. He had been a lifelong resident of Battle Creek, graduating from Battle Creek Central in 1946, Upon graduation he enlisted in the United States Army serving with the Occupational Forces in Japan. He worked for Michigan Bell, retiring after 35 years . He was united in marriage on May 5, 1951 at St. Philip Catholic Church with the love of his life, Josephine A. Bauman. Married 57 years, they were blessed with six children whom they raised in a strong faith.  Richard was a man who used his gifts from God to take care of his family.  His children remember the strength of his hands and that he could fix anything…even our attitudes when needed. He taught us all how to love unselfishly. He showed us that it was better to serve then to be served.  He enjoyed watching his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren participate in many activities. His passion was sports, playing baseball for many years in the city recreation league. You could always find him at Bailey Park watching a baseball game. He is recognized at Nichols Field on the Wall of Fame. He also loved to fish, camp, play cards, garden, working jigsaw puzzles and birdwatching.  Richard will be missed by his children: Margaret (Ron) Canfield of Battle Creek, Ginny (Mark) Elsesser of Brooklyn, OH, Fred (Lynda) Smith of Stevensville, Steve (Catherine) Smith of New Port Richey, FL , Mary Jo (Chuck) Jager of Stevensville, Teri (Paul) Nelson of Battle Creek, 15 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren, sisters-in-law: Sharon Smith of Battle Creek, Pat Haeske of Jupiter, FL, Joann Bauman of Battle Creek and Barbara Bauman of Kalamazoo, as well as many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; Frederick and Olga, wife; Josephine,  his brothers Charles and Bill and his sister Betty.  The family will receive friends from 3:00-8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, where the reciting of the Rosary will take place at 7:00 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 a.m., on Thursday at St. Philip Catholic Church with Fr. John Fleckenstein, celebrant, interment to follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Philip Catholic Church or the Catholic Athletic Association at St. Philip High School.   Condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org