Richard Van Smith, 71, of Hawk Point, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at SSM – Lake St. Louis.  He was born on August 11, 1952 in LaPlata, Maryland to Robert and Frances (Tarkenton) Smith.  After graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Navy in January 19, 1971 and was stationed in San Diego, California and served for four years.   Sometime after, he went to  college and received his Associates Degree.

On July 16, 2005, he was united to Kathryn Martinek in Hawk Point at the VFW.  They joined their two families as one and raised their four children: Richard, James, Amanda and Charles.  The couple made their home in Hawk Point and he worked for Professional Industries, retiring in 2018 after many years of dedicated service.

He was a member of St. Mary's Church in Hawk Point and helped whenever possible.  Van and Kathy both loved to bowl and belonged to several leagues throughout the years.  His grandkids were of the utmost importance to him along with all of his family members.  He had a special fondness for cats and also enjoyed going to the lake, fishing with friends and family.

Surviving are his devoted wife, Kathy Smith of Hawk Point; his four children: Richard (Jen) Smith of Troy, James (Natalie) Kaufman of Hawk Pt., Amanda (Brian) Fox of Moscow Mills, Charles (April) Kaufman of Vandalia; and his adoring 16 grandchildren.  He is further survived by his three siblings: Victor Smith of New Mexico, Elizabeth (Gary) Ell of Festus, Rebecca (Leon) Keys of Union; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Van was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Robert Rohrbacker and his brother, Robert Q. Smith III.

Visitation scheduled from 4-8 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, 2024  and also from 9-9:45 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at the HAWK POINT CHAPEL – McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory, 493 Main St., Hk. Pt., MO (636) 528-8244 .

A Funeral Mass scheduled to follow at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at the St. Mary's Church in Hawk Point.  Fr. Edward Godefroid to officiate.  Inurnment private. Honorary Pallbearers- Brandon Gants,  Ethan Smith, Alex Kaufman, Wesley Kaufman, Michael Fox and Stanley Fox.

Memorials may be made to the family to help defray funeral expenses.  Family and friends are invited to sign our online guestbook at: www.mccoyblossomfh.com