Richard Merle Smith

Richard Merle Smith, 91, of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho passed away January 6, 2018 at his home.  Richard was born April 20, 1926 in Omaha, Nebraska to Sidney and Martha (Halloway) Smith.

As a child Richard moved with his family to California.  At the age of 16 he joined the United States Navy and proudly served during WWII.  After his discharge he returned to Los Angeles, California.  He then became a police officer working for Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

After moving to Idaho in the ‘60’s Richard worked as a crane operator, and later the Spokane Operating Engineers until his retirement. 

Richard was first married to Emma Jean Wood and together they raised three children Sharon, Rick, and Donna.  He eventually retired to North Idaho where Emma Jean Passed in 1990.  He then met Hazel Benham and they were married in 1990 in Post Falls. 

Richard was a member of Lifeway Chapel.  He enjoyed Gunsmithing, woodcrafts, and hunting.

He is survived by his loving wife Hazel Smith of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho; two daughters Sharon Gering of Portland, Oregon and Donna Bandford of Portland, Oregon; and extended family; Troy of Boulder, Colorado, Harry of Cambridge, Nebraska, Chris of Broomfield Colorado, and Cory of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, one son Rick Smith, and one grandson H.J. Parent. 

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held Saturday January 13th, 2018 at 2:00 P.M. at Lifeway Chapel 501 W. 15th Ave. Post Falls, Idaho 83854.