Richard L. Smith, 66, of Crown Point passed away on July 27th at home surrounded by his family. He was born May 4, 1954 in Carbondale, IL.
In 1977, Rick married Karla Stroud in Carterville, IL.
Rick graduated from Southern IL University-Carbondale with a B.A. in Education before moving on to work for the IC railroad. He later spent most of his career at Metra. Rick and Karla lived in Chicago Heights, IL for many years where they raised their 2 daughters.
Those that knew Rick will remember him as funny, intellectually curious, and welcoming. Throughout the years Karla and Rick embraced many children into their home who he cared for enormously. He loved Godzilla (and other B) movies, sports, food, and spending time with family and friends.
He is survived by his wife, Karla; two daughters, Jamie (Dan) Cullen, and Sarah (Dan) MacDonald; grandchildren, Audrey and Keagan MacDonald, and Delaney and Riley Cullen; sisters, Alice Kulenkamp and Betty Thate. There are also those he considered family: namely Sophie, Cailin, and Emma Delaney.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Izetta and Robert Smith; sister, Shirley Koenig; and brother, Jim Smith.
There will be no services per Rick’s request.