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Richard F. Smith

Richard F. Smith

Sept. 12, 1959 to Oct. 9,2021

Richard F. Smith, 62, of Silver Creek, N.Y., passed away Saturday morning Oct. 9, 2021, at Brooks Memorial Hospital, after a long courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis.

He was born in Dunkirk, N.Y., the son of the late Glenn and Sarah (Frederick) Smith.

Surviving are two sons: Derek Smith of Forestville, N.Y., and Dustin Smith of Fredonia, N.Y.; a step-son, James Pagano of Silver Creek; a step-daughter, Jonelle Pagano of Orchard Park, N.Y.; a sister, Loretta Cornell of Gowanda, N.Y.; two close nieces: Janice Gratien and Terry Cox; two canine companions: Granger and Dodger; and several nieces and nephews. Rich will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Donna Minardi.

Rich was a 1977 graduate of Silver Creek High School. He was a member of the Buffalo Carpenters Union 276 in Cheektowaga, N.Y. He worked on many jobs in Western NY as a master carpenter and masonry worker. Rich also was self-employed, he owned and operated Rich’s Carpentry Service and R.F. Smith Construction Co. in Silver Creek.

His memberships included the Silver Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Huntley Hose Co., NO.1, in which he oversaw the Huntley Hose Picnic Campgrounds, Silver Creek Fireman’s Club, a founding member of the Cherry Creek SnoGoers Vintage Chapter and the NRA.

Rich was gregarious person who loved hosting all types of parties, especially pig roasts, music jamborees and NASCAR races. First and foremost, Rich was a true “outdoorsman” who loved hunting with a bow or rifle with his sons, they have many trophies to show for their efforts. He loved fishing for walleye with his family and friends on his boat. He enjoyed making chili and wine. He entered both in local contests and won many awards. He looked forward to family trips to the Allegheny State Park, staying in the rustic cabins and going to the races in Watkins Glen.

Per Rich’s wishes, there will be a Celebration of Rich’s life (party) on Sun-day, Oct. 24, 2021, from noon to 4 p.m., at the Silver Creek Fireman’s Club, 23 Jackson St., Silver Creek.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hole Parker Funeral Chapel, 160 Central Ave. Silver Creek, N.Y.

Please share a condolence or remembrance at www.holeparkerfc.com.