Richard Allen Smerud

Richard Allen Smerud of Lubbock, Texas, passed away on March 8, 2026, following a lengthy illness. Born on April 9, 1950, in Bemidji, Minnesota, he was the fourth child in a family that grew to eight. At the age of five, he moved with his family to Reese Air Force Base near Lubbock, where they later settled permanently.

Richard attended Lubbock High School before enlisting in the Navy, serving in Vietnam from 1968 to 1972. After his military service, he returned to Lubbock with his young family. He built a long career in fire protection, beginning under the guidance of his brother-in-law Lynn. He completed the 669 Apprenticeship Program through Penn State and earned his N.I.C.E.T. Engineering Technician Certification. From 1972 until his retirement in 2015, he designed and installed sprinkler systems for LaDew Fire Protection, Superior Sprinkler Systems, and Gailey Fire Protection.

He had a deep love for road trips, nature, and animals, especially Dachshunds, adopting three from the Dusty Puddles rescue over the years. Richard was a devoted family man who cherished time with his loved ones. Known for his broad shoulders and steadfast presence, he was a reliable source of strength, sympathy, advice, and practical help—particularly with car repairs and fixing just about anything. His quiet, consistent way of caring for others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He was predeceased by his wife, Ruby “Earlene” Smerud, his mother Freda Bunch, his sister Carol Price, and his step-granddaughter Chanda. Richard is survived by his children, Richard R. Smerud (Melissa) and Kenny Smerud; his step-children, Randy Christopher (Connie) and Sandie Garcia; his grandchildren, Alexis (Dalton), Amy (Stanley), Andy (Ashley), Brittany, Chris (Shannon), Jarrett, Kristopher, Kely (Kiel), Kimberly-Ashton, Kyle (Brittani), Lance, and Taylor; his great-grandchildren, Bailey, Carson, Huxley, Kambry, Kane, Kase, Kivey, Kylin, Laila, Rendi, Tatum, Trevor, and Trey (Cheyenne); his sisters, Beverly, Mary (Paul), Janie, and Laurie; his brothers, Jimmy and Johnny (Delura); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.