TIMKEN — Richard Francis Smolik, 92, passed away Sept. 3, 2024, at Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington, Kan. He was born Oct. 2, 1931, to Frank and Agnes (Rudolf) Smolik on the family homestead near Timken.

Richard attended Timken country schools before dedicating his life as a farmer and stockman. He was a mechanic, in his own shop, that was located on the farm. He enlisted in the United States Army and served proudly in the Korean War. Richard married Donna Ochs Sept. 12, 1959, at Timken, Kan. She died Nov. 17, 2023. He was a member of Holy Trinity Church in Timken and attended Prince of Peace Parish, Great Bend. Richard was a jack of all trades. He designed and built sheds on the farm, loved to collect and rebuild antique tractors, and collected many things including model cars.

Survivors include two sons, Ken Smolik and wife Kris of Great Bend, Gerald Smolik of Timken; daughter, Mary Bieker and husband Darrell of Great Bend; brother, Robert Smolik of Great Bend; grandchildren, Scott Smolik and wife Cassie, Michael Smolik and wife Kendyll, Michala Bieker, and Emma Bieker; three great-grandchildren, Olivia Smolik, Connor Smolik and Levi Smolik; and four step-great grandchildren, Kadyn Schmidt, Carsyn Berggren, Brock Berggren and McKoy Berggren. He was preceded in death by a brother Matthew Smolik and a sister Betty Axman.

Visitation will be held Sunday Sept. 8, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., with family receiving friends from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a Rosary and Vigil at 7 p.m. at Bryant Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Father Prakash Kola presiding. Interment will follow at Bohemian Cemetery, in Timken. Memorials have been designated to Prince of Peace Parish, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Road, Great Bend, KS. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Sept. 5, 2024