BURRVILLE, NY — Richard J. Smith, 87, Burrville, passed away Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, at Samaritan Medical Center, Watertown.
A calling hour will be held from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. prior to the funeral service on Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Reed & Benoit Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Brookside Cemetery accompanied by honorary pall bearers Martin T. Smith, Garry A. Platt, Jr., Zane A. Platt, Michael M. Berkman, Sr., Jim Hill and Brian LaPierre.
There will be a luncheon after the burial at the Town of Watertown Fire Department Station 1.
He is survived by his wife, Katherine, Watertown; daughter, Barbara J. Smith and her fiancé Mike Berkman, Watertown; son, Martin T. Smith and his fiancé Lori Giverson, Mexico, NY; his very special grandson Garry Platt, Jr. and his wife Carrie, and a very special great grandson Zane Platt, all of Shiocton, WI.
Richard was born in Watertown, Oct. 22, 1931, a son to Harry C. and Mary K. Smith.
He graduated from Watertown High School in 1950 and the Academy of Aeronautics in New York City. Richard graduated college from Canton ATI in 1953.
He married Katherine Hale of Hermon, NY, on July 26, 1952 at Holy Family Rectory, Watertown. Richard went to work with his father at the family business, Smith Oil Co, in 1953 The business later became Burrville Fuels, which Richard owned and operated until retiring. Richard was also a Special Deputy for Jefferson County under Sheriff Chaufty.
Richard was a founding member of the Town of Watertown Fire Department and helped to build the original Station 1. He was a volunteer fireman for over 55 years and also a Fire Instructor & Commissioner for the Town of Watertown Fire Department.
Richard was a former Fire Chief with the Town of Watertown Fire Department and was one of the last trustees of the Old Stone Schoolhouse in Burrville.
Richard was a man who enjoyed a simple life and being with his family.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Cleveland Transport Services for their care and consideration for Katherine and Richard.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Town of Watertown Ambulance, 18535 US RT 11, Watertown, NY 13601, SPCA, 25056 Water St., Watertown, NY 13601, or spend time with a friend.
Condolences may be made online at www.reedbenoit.com
