In Memoriam
Rick Smith
President &
Directing Business Representative
1947-2008
It is with deepest regrets that we inform you Rick Smith, beloved President and Directing Business Representative of District 837, went home to be with our Lord on Friday, January 18, 2008.
Rick is survived by his wife, Nancy, and children Ricky and Kathy, Stacie and Vance, and Eric and Stacey.
Rick served the membership employed at Boeing, GKN and RTI with pride for 41 years in various capacities. Rick led the District from 1998 to 2008 as our President. He served as a Business Representative from 1995 to 1998, as a Plant Chairman from 1991 through 1993, and as Shop Steward from 1982 through 1991.
Rick served as the Vice President of St. Louis Labor Council, First Vice President, Missouri State Council of Machinists, IAM Board Member of Guide Dogs of America, Boeing HPWO Steering Committee, and District Director of Boeing IAM-Diversity Team.
Throughout his career, Rick worked to better the lives of those around him in other capacities. He has been the Recording Secretary for Local Lodge B and Chairman of New Technology.
Rick's moral character always had him placing the welfare of his membership above all else. Through his leadership, the lives of thousands of our members and their families were made better. Rick never compromised his integrity or the values of his Union as he led the District in negotiations with the companies we represent or as he led the changes in the District needed to ensure our members needs were met.
Nancy asks that any memorial contributions you wish to make in his honor be directed to the Guide Dogs of America - St. Louis (GDA). Rick donated many hours to raising funds for the GDA as he worked to make the lives of others less fortunate better. Please contact Jim Marshall or Steve McDerman at 314-731-0603 for information on where to send your memorial contributions.