Richard Anthony Smits, 87, De Pere, passed away at home in his wife's loving arms on Sunday evening, April 24, 2022. The son of Virgil and Florence (Spritka) Smits was born in Green Bay on February 24, 1935. On August 6, 1955, he married Arlene Stammer at St. Joseph Catholic Church in De Pere. Richard was employed by Chicago & Northwestern Railroad for 46 years. His work for the railroad meant a great deal to him, and he continued to visit the roundhouse for years after retiring. Once both he and Arlene were retired, they enjoyed 25 winters in Ocala, Florida which was a second home to them. His hobbies included photography, raising different kinds of birds, boating and flying radio-controlled airplanes. One of his accomplishments was building a home on a piece of land he called "The Promised Land." The family lived there many years and had many adventures and memories. Richard is survived by his wife of 66 years, Arlene; children, Kathy (Jim) Mack, Susan (Jerry) Gillespie, Jim Smits; son-in-law, Les Kornowske; grandchildren, Thomas (Kayla), Matthew, Joseph, Wesley (Sara), Ross (Melany), Jacqueline (Daniel), Michael and Blaise. He is further survived by his sister, Marilyn Smits; eleven great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson; many nieces and nephews; and other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Florence; daughter, Barbara Kornowske; brother, Robert (Doris) Smits; and sister, Joan Sauvey. Family and friends may visit at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth Street, De Pere from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 29, 2022. A short prayer service will close the evening at 6:00 p.m. Burial will take place at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery, De Pere. The family would like to extend thanks to the staff at Woodside Lutheran Home for their wonderful care. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established to support causes dear to Richard.