Richard Smith, 80

Richard Wyman Smith was born May 21, 1945 in Missoula, Montana to Marjorie Louise Cajune and Richard Louis Smith. He was the middle son of five children - Lawrence “Johnny” Smith, Nancy Hall, Mary “Ease” Smith, and Joe Smith.  He was raised in Dixon, Montana on the Flathead Reservation; later moving to West Glacier where he graduated from Columbia Falls in 1963.

An enrolled member of the White Earth Chippewa band from Minnesota, Richard graduated as the first American Indian from the School of Architecture at Montana State University in 1969. His designs were known for their far-sighted qualities, blending organic form and technical space that took inspiration from the lands they were rooted in. “Ideally, people wouldn’t need houses - they would live on the earth in harmony, under the stars or in caves. But because people need shelter, and there aren’t enough caves, I design houses,”  Richard said.

Richard lived his life in northwestern Montana as a visionary architect, painter, cartoonist, husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He was known for his conversational ease, kind nature, brilliant outlook, and generous heart.

On July 26, 2025 with Lorinda by his side, Richard passed as he lived his life -- in total peace. Life is good, the gods are great.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Lorinda Diane Smith; his four kids, Jason Sun-Joe Cajune, Sarah Maigin Smith, Keela Cajune Smith, and Nishka Indigo Smith; his five grandchildren Sophia May, Elsamin Aubrey, Courage Samuel, Rollo Bearpaws, and Reginald Neon; his two sisters, Nancy Jo Hall and Mary Louise Smith; his three brothers-in-law, David, Daniel, and Paul Severson, and a huge extended family clan of nephews, nieces, and cousins.

A Gathering for Richard’s life and death will be on Sept. 20 in Depot Park, Whitefish, from 1-4 p.m. Bring stories, laughs, and cookies if inclined.

Friends of Richard are encouraged to send any memories or stories of Richard along to [email protected] or PO Box 1558 WF, MT 59937