Richard O. Smith, 90, of Defiance, went home to be with Jesus on Sunday, March 26, 2017 at CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center in Defiance. He was born in Cecil, Ohio on September 26, 1926 at the home of his parents, Ray and Beulah (Musselman) Smith.

Richard proudly served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II. On August 6th, 1950 Richard married the love of his life, Bonnie Strouse in an outdoor ceremony at the home of Bonnie's grandparents in McComb, officiated by Bonnie's grandfather, Rev. Ray Strouse. Richard retired from Ballreich's Potato Chips where he drove truck and delivered potato chips to many area businesses. 

Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He was also a faithful member of Second Baptist Church. Richard was a charter member of the "Prop-Floppers" Airplane Club, and built and flew several beautiful airplanes over many years.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Kathy (David) Gerken, granddaughter, Jennifer Gerken, and a son, Rick (Helen) Smith.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife Bonnie, his parents, grandparents, his twin brother, Robert, a younger brother, Kenneth, and a younger sister, Thelma Ballreich Bowser.
  
Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, March 30, 2017 at Schaffer Funeral Home, with Rev. Max Begley officiating. Burial will follow the service at Riverside Cemetery
  
Memorials are suggested to the church. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.