Richard "Dick" J. Smits

Richard “Dick” J. Smits of Green Bay passed away at the age of 93 on Monday, August 5, 2024, at Aurora Baycare Medical Center. Dick was born September 21, 1930, to the now late John and Mary Dorothy (DeLeers) Smits. His positive and loving presence touched so very many people during his lifetime as a brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. His deep spirituality instantly made a positive impression on all he met. A graduate of East High School in 1948, he was a varsity football player for four years, along with being an accomplished singer. Dick was a charter member of St. Bernard’s Church where he anchored the choir and made many Christmas Eve Mass celebrations special with his solos. Dick married his best friend Barbara La Plant on June 28, 1952, and during their marriage of 68 years they set a standard of love for the entire family. Always hand in hand, they traveled together, raised a family and enjoyed watching grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. During his career as a carpenter for DeLeers Construction he built beautiful homes. After retirement his main hobby became the scroll saw. Dick channeled vision, artistry and precision into master works of art. A God-given talent and testament to the amazing man he was. As a man of deep faith, Dick led by quiet example. He shared his love of God by befriending many, always serving others, and being a rock to all he knew. Dick is survived by his children: Julie (Rick) Groonwald, Rob (Mina) Smits, daughter-in-law Patricia Smits; 7 grandchildren: Michael, Brian (Agnes) Groonwald, Eric (Ann) Groonwald, Laura (Derek) LeClaire, Lisa Smits (Mike Maes), Kaitlyn (Cale) Tassi, and Luke Smits; 11 great-grandchildren: a sister and brother-in-law: Mary Lou (Darrel) Lindsley, along with many nieces and nephews. Dick loved attending St. Willebrord Saturday mass where he was embraced by many new friends who will miss his endearing smile. Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; son, David; granddaughter, Karlee; 1 brother and sister-in-law, William (Lois) Smits, 2 sisters and brothers-in-law, Phyllis (Richard) DeKeyser, Bernadine (Charles) Verona. Gathering of family and friends will be held from 9:00 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at St. Willebrord Catholic Church 209 S. Adams Street. A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M. with Rev. Andrew Cribben O. Praem officiating. Entombment at Shrine of the Good Shepard Chapel Mausoleum. The family thanks Father Andy for his warm spirit and the Aurora Intensive Care and Hospice staff for helping Dick on his final journey. In lieu of flowers or other expressions of sympathy Memorial Donations may be made to St. Willebrord Catholic Church.

Richard "Dick" J. Smits

September 21, 1930 - August 5, 2024