Richard Blacksmith
November 24, 2009
Richard D. Blacksmith, formerly of Des Moines, passed away Tuesday, November 24, 2009. Visitation will be 1 to 5 pm Sunday, November 29, 2009, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, with cremation to follow.
Richard is survived by his wife, Sophia; children, Pavilynn, Peter, Tony, Ashley, Robert and Joseph; one brother; four sisters and other family members.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family in loving memory of Richard.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Aletha Berding-Powell
11/30/2009
The family of Lee Berding from Charles City Iowa would like to extend our sincere sympathy to the family of Richard Blacksmith. Our father met Richard's father (Tony) over 50 years ago at the Veteran's Hospital in Des Moines. They became friends and Tony and his family would visit our farm from time to time. As the years passed, our family lost track of the Blacksmith family; but we often wondered what happened to dad's old friend. We lost our father (Lee) in 1990, but our mother (Cecelia) is still alive and living on the farm. It was a shock to pick up the Des Moines Register Saturday and read that Richard had passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family in your time of sorrow.
Tim Woods
11/28/2009
So sorry to hear about Richard. He was a great guy and influenced my decision to join the US Marine Corps which I'll always be grateful for. I remember how happy he was the day I got him out of boot camp on visitors day in San Diego. He always had a winning way with people. I regret not spending more time with him.
Tim
Mike Hall
11/29/2009
Rich was a great friend as well as a mentor. He was our USMC advisor for Reserve Naval Construction Battalion Fifteen headquartered in Belton, MO. He had the ability to get along with everone while still keeping us all in line.
As a friend, I will always remember Rich as one of the most cheerful persons I have ever met. He could turn your worst day into your best. I will miss Rich and will have fond memories of him forever.
GySgt Joe Marty, USMC/Retired
11/28/2009
I served with Richard from December 1981 until December 1984 and will always remember him as a Marine who looked out for his men first and foremost. He was always hungry for knowledge from the I&I Staff from which I was a member. He was the Weapons Platoon Commander when I was there and had by far the finest platoon in the Company, Battalion and when compared to the rest of the platoons I had or served with was one of the best. Gunny, you will be missed. Remember the "Peaches" we comsumed together on our trips up north for those long weekend drills to Fort McCoy. God Bless You and my sincere heartfelt condolances to your family for their loss. Semper Fi, Marine.
Steve & KayAnne Cantonwine
11/28/2009
Sophia and all children;
KayAnne and I were saddened to learn of Richard's passing. He was a wonderful friend to us for many years. We know that he will be missed by many, us included. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and that Richard is in a far bettr place. May God Bless and Comfort you during this time of loss.