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Richard Bryant Smith January 31, 1945 March 28, 2018 Richard Bryant Smith, 73, of State College, died Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at home. Born January 31, 1945, in Scranton, he was the son of the late Richard L. Smith and Marion B. Smith. On June 13, 1981 he married Virginia Carol Wolfe. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Jennifer Rauch and her husband, Kent, of State College, and Marion Kilker and her husband Jonathan, of York; two grandsons, Hunter and Sebastian Rauch; a sister, Suzanne Karg and her husband, James of Springville, and many nieces and nephews. Richard grew up on Smitholm dairy farm in Springville, well-known for registered Holsteins. He graduated from Elk Lake High School in 1963. After high school, he received his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland, and both his Master's and Doctoral degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State University, and was a Professional Engineer. He was a member of the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society, and was a 50 year Mason. He worked for Penn State in the Applied Research Laboratory, primarily in the area of underwater propulsion, and retired in 1999 after 32 years of service. He stayed active in the operation of the family farm throughout his life, and amassed an extensive collection of International Harvester tractors and farm equipment, as well as a classic Mustang Mach I and other vehicles. He was an avid NASCAR fan. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 7, 2018 from 2:00 to 5:00 at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College, 16801. In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to make a contribution to the "Marion B. Smith Trustee Scholarship," 11 Old Main, University Park, PA 16802, or a charity of their choice. An additional Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Springville, PA. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.
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May the hope of everlasting life sustain and comfort you and your family as you mourn the passing of your love one. My deepest condolences to the family.
April 15, 2018
Carol we are so sorry for your loss. He was honorable and loving and a great family man. Barb and Jim Johnson
April 8, 2018
What a wonderful man Dick was. He could always make me smile and laugh every time I saw him. This is a profound loss for every one who knew him. Carol, I am deeply sorry for your loss - and others who were close to him. My prayers are with you all. God bless you.
Phyl McGarvey
April 7, 2018
How sad! Dick came across as one not in search of anything because he had already found it. His presence always drew a crowd and his memory always draws a smile.
Walt Gearhart
April 6, 2018
Both shocked and profoundly sad to hear of Dick's passing.
What a great guyAlways a smile and a friendly word.
It was a pleasure to have known and worked with him.
Old school guy who always got the job done no matter what.
Rest in peace my friend.
April 3, 2018
I'm so sorry for your loss.My Prayers Sent.
Bonnie Forba
April 3, 2018
Sometimes in a lifetime you are lucky enough to meet a few unique individuals who just make life more fun when you are around them. Dick was one of those individuals for me. I am certainly going to miss his quick and witty remarks! My heart goes out to you and your family, Carol.
Eleanor Lawton
April 1, 2018
Dick was a mentor to all of his fellow Mechanical Engineers to whom he taught thermodynamics and turbomachinery. He will be deeply missed by all of us. Thanks for your service to our country at ARL.
Daniel Kerstetter
April 1, 2018
Carol and family. I'm so sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Eva Bishop
April 1, 2018
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Koch Funeral Home - State College2401 S. Atherton Street, State College, PA 16801
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