Richard “Dick” Smith, 95, passed away on December 4, 2025.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday December 10, at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 1919 N 2nd St., Bismarck. Visitation will be held one hour prior. To view the service livestream please click on the link provided ~ Richard Smith

Burial will be held at 1:00 PM at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan, ND.

He was born on September 22, 1930, in Minot, North Dakota. Dick spent his early years in Maxbass before moving with his parents, four brothers, and sister to Minot. He graduated from Minot Model High School in 1948, and during his senior year he enlisted in the North Dakota National Guard—beginning what would become a remarkable 42-year military career.

Dick’s service spanned multiple decades, locations, and responsibilities. From 1948 to 1950, he served with the North Dakota National Guard in Minot before being called to active duty in Korea from 1950 to 1952, where he served with the 9th Field Artillery Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division. He returned to Minot and served with the Guard from 1952 to 1961. During the Berlin Crisis, he was activated and served at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, from 1961 to 1962. He then continued his service with the North Dakota National Guard in Bismarck from 1962 to 1969, followed by the U.S. Army Reserve in Bismarck from 1969 to 1985. Dick concluded his distinguished career in the U.S. Army Reserve at Fort Missoula, Montana, serving from 1985 until his retirement in 1990.

During his long career, Dick rose through the enlisted and warrant officer ranks, ultimately earning the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. His service was recognized with numerous awards, and accommodations.

In 1956, Dick met the love of his life, Delores “Dee” Smith, and the two were married in 1957. They shared 61 wonderful years together until Dee’s passing on April 21, 2018. Their life together was filled with family, adventure, laughter, and deep devotion.

Dick and Dee raised five children—Their son Jeff, who served proudly in the U.S. Army at Fort Lewis, Washington, passed away in a car accident in 1983, a heartbreaking loss the family carried with them always.

Anyone who knew Dick will remember his humor, warmth, and ever-present smile. He was always full of life—quick with a joke, ready with a laugh, and able to put people at ease whether they were kids or adults. To those around him, it seemed Dick never had a bad day. His cheerful spirit and easygoing nature made him a joy to be around.

A devout Catholic, Dick was a longtime member of Corpus Christi Church in Bismarck. His faith was a guiding part of his life, shaping his character, service, and the way he treated others—with kindness, humility, and gratitude.

Upon retirement, Dick and Dee moved to Flathead Lake, Montana, for three years before settling in Sun City West, Arizona. They enjoyed winters in Arizona and summers in Bismarck until returning to Bismarck permanently in 2005 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. While in Sun City, they formed many cherished friendships, and their home became a beloved vacation spot for family escaping the North Dakota cold.

Dick is survived by his children: Tama Smith (Jerry DeMartin), Nikki (Glen Bosch), Scott (Tina), and Rick (Mindy); eight grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dee; his son Jeff; his parents; and his brothers and sister.

Dick will be dearly missed by his family and friends, as well as the staff and residents of Touchmark and St. Gabriel’s, who came to know and love him.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to St. Gabriel and HIA Hospice for their compassionate care. Memorials may be made to Furry Friends Rockin Rescue.