Richard Michael "Richie" Smellowsky

Richard (Richie) Michael Smellowsky, 83 years of age of Broadway Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania passed away suddenly on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024, at home.

Born Tuesday, May 28, 1940 in Mahanoy City the son of the late Joseph Bowers, and Eva (Smellowsky) Leidinger. Richard was also predeceased by; daughter, Christine "Tina" Hartz.

Surviving are; his beloved wife of 33 years, Brenda D. (Souders) Smellowsky; daughters, Michele Klobosits wife of Steve, Cheryl "Sherry" Carter wife of the late John, Tammy Sword wife of Joe; Melissa Shaffer wife of Brian; Cathy Van Zile wife of Paul; sisters, Peggy Hercek, Cindy Klein; brothers, James Bowers, Frank Bowers and his wife Sharon; 9 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren

A talented mechanic, Richie worked for various car dealerships in the Tamaqua Area before opening Richie’s Auto Repair on Pitt Street, which he ran for many years.

In the 70’s he enjoyed racing late model stock cars at Anthracite and Big Diamond raceway with his girls cheering him on.

Richie's second home for more than 40 years was Tuckahoe Campground in Dagsboro, DE enjoying fishing, boating, and harvesting clams in the Indian River Inlet.

He loved cooking and eating, never missing a meal.

Richie loved hosting St. Patrick’s Day parties with Brenda for the annual parade at their home.

Richie enjoyed time with his beloved pets; Johnny Boy, Evie and the late Precious.

Funeral Arrangements entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550

​Funeral Services will be held on Friday April 5, 2024 at 11 o'clock A.M. from the funeral home Friends may call from 9:30 A.M. until the time of services.

Interment will be in Odd Fellows, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Griffiths Funeral Home to help cover funeral expenses.