Richard "Dick" Albert Smeal

It is with great love and sadness that the family of Richard “Dick” Albert Smeal announces his sudden passing on September 18, 2025, at the Drumheller Regional Hospital. Richard was born on April 22, 1938, the second of seven children born to Albert and Irene Smeal of Michichi, Alberta. He was a lifelong resident of Drumheller and the surrounding area.

Well known in the community as the man who could fix anything, Richard was a gifted mechanic and millwright by trade. He never met an engine he could not repair. Over the years, he shared his talents and dedication through a long career in mechanical services. Starting as a partner in Supershell Service Station in Drumheller, he quickly became known to many. After the sale of that business, Dick went on to work with Pan Canadian Petroleum and later Encana, based out of Drumheller.

Beyond his work, Richard had a zest for life and an adventurous spirit. In fact, his first profession after marrying the love of his life was as a professional stock car racer. He loved the outdoors, and his passions included archery, hunting, snowmobiling, fishing, quadding, and spending time with his grandson—just about anything that brought him closer to nature and adventure. His skill with his hands and his joy for the outdoors made him a man of both talent and heart. His great sense of humor and witty comments ensured his life was full of both family and friends. He was also well known for his love of animals and was often seen driving in Drumheller with his trusty companion “Sandy” who was his faithful yellow lab and technically his first child.

Richard’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 61 years, Roberta; his daughter Sherry and her husband, Andrew Strack, along with their son Connor, his treasured grandson, all of Calgary, Alberta; and his daughter Tammy and her husband, Bryan Peterson, of Kelowna, B.C. (who, for the record, did not catch a bigger fish than Dick). He is also survived by his siblings: sister Joyce Burnham, sister Helen McConathy, brother Ralph Smeal and his wife Sherry, and sister Lorna Simpson and her husband John, as well as many nieces and nephews who will carry fond memories of their Uncle Dick.

Richard’s warmth, humor, and incredible knack for fixing what was broken—whether machines or moments—will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers or charitable donations in honor of Dick, the family requests that you challenge yourself to “pay it forward.” Keep your eyes open for a friend, family member, neighbor, or stranger who could benefit from a helping hand—because that is exactly what Dick would do.

The family invites everyone to join them for a come and go luncheon on Friday, September 26, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, at St. Anthony's Church Hall.  Please come and share your stories and memories of Dick.

Please do not order flowers from this site, please use your local florist.