Richard W. Smith

Richard (Dick) Wayne Smith, 86, a resident of Mechanicsburg, passed away on Jan. 27 in Staten Island, N.Y.

Dick was born on Sept. 24, 1935, to John and June Smith in Pottsville.

After graduating from Pottsville High School, he attended Massanutten Military Academy and received a football scholarship to The University of North Carolina. Graduating with a degree in geology, Dick began his career at PennDOT. Furthering his education at MIT, he received his civil engineering license to become the district manager of Western Pa. During his final years at PennDOT, he worked with the Office of Legal Counsel as an engineering expert to prepare cases for the state.

In 1954, Dick met Mary Dolbin at the Minersville pool and they married in 1956. They settled in the Mechanicsburg area, had two children, Dorothy and Richard Jr., and always had a houseful of family pets.

Dick continued his participation in athletics most of his life, competing on softball and basketball teams. He was honored to be inducted into the Football Hall of Fame. Hunting and fishing were his lifelong passions.

Dick was predeceased by his wife, Mary, and son, Richard Jr.

He is survived by his daughter, Dorothy; five grandchildren, Jennifer, Ricky, John, George and Mary; and six great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at noon Saturday, March 5, at St. Luke Parish, 8 East Keller Street, Mechanicsburg.