Richard S. Smetanka

Richard “Rick” S. Smetanka, age 69, of Manahawkin, NJ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at home surrounded by his family and good friends/caregivers, Levan and Lia Amirejibi. The family would also like extend a special thank you to his previous caregivers who cared for him for 3 years, Myrna, Cassie, Monica, Caitlyn and Miguel.

Born July 21, 1956 in Trenton, NJ, he lived in Trenton prior to Manahawkin where he resided since 2020. A 1974 graduate of Hamilton High School West, he went on to further his education at Mercer County Community College. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by Department Of Transportation, Trenton, NJ for 36 years as Project Engineer. An avid fisherman, Rick loved being on the water, watching his NY Giants with a glass of Merlot, and good food.

He is predeceased by his parents, Michael and Madeline “Tink” Callahan Smetanka, both of Trenton, NJ.

Rick is survived by his two brothers; Michael Smetanka and his wife Patricia of Bonita Springs, FL., and Robert Smetanka and his wife Bonnie of Manahawkin, NJ, his aunt Dolores Neuman of Ewing, NJ, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial gathering will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 from 10am until his blessing service, 11:45am at Maxwell-Tobie Funeral Home, 573 Mill Creek Road, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.