Richard James Hurst, Sr, 70, of Bear Lake, died peacefully in the company of family at his home at 11:47 p.m. Saturday, April 20, 2024.

Born on June 30, 1953, in Fort Wayne, IN, he was a son of the late Paul Lee Hurst, Sr. and Mildred June Bumgardner) Hurst.  Growing up in Spencerville, he completed Harlan Elementary School and attended Woodlan High School.

Joining the U.S. Army on December 31, 1971, he served at Fort Hood, TX, Germany, and Korea. During his service, he earned his GED. He was honorably discharged on April 20, 1977.

On June 7, 1987, he married Diane Lynn Lienerth.  They made their home in rural Columbia City until 2017, when they moved to Bear Lake.

He began his work at Tire Center, Inc. in Fort Wayne, where he was the Service Manager.  He later went to work for O'Daniel Ford and completed his work career at Dexter Axle, retiring in 2016.

In his retirement, he enjoyed fishing, watching the birds, and tinkering with small gas-powered engines. Without the stress of a regular job, he fondly enjoyed being with his kids and grandkids and sharing his knowledge and wisdom he had garnered through the years. In his quiet time, he enjoyed a good Western or Sci-Fi movie.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Diane; children Shelly M. Recker of Kendallville, Robin M. (Jason) Burianek of Halem, NE, Betty J. Hurst, and Brianne (Kevin) Lortie both of Columbia City, Audrey (Ben) Frankart of Albion, Richard J. (Alyse) Hurst, II of Roanoke, and Becca A. (Jake) Hatfield of Fort Wayne; 22 grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by brothers Charles F. Tracy and Donnie Hurst.

There will be no services.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials in Richard's honor are to the American Kidney Foundation.