Richard Smith, 83, died peacefully on November 3, 2025, at his home in rural Sparta, Wisconsin. Known for his storytelling, music, and fierce sense of community, Richard was a pillar everywhere he lived.
Along with his twin brother Robert, Richard owned Smith Cycle Service in Madison Wisconsin. The cycle shop served as a hub for members of the motorcycle group CC Riders, which Richard and Robert helped form in 1968.
In the late 1970s, a fast-food truck tried to open shop next to the cycle shop. After the company pulled out of the venture, Richard and community members bought the land, planted trees, and established the Willy Street Park.
Whether organizing massive protests to repeal Wisconsin’s helmet law in 1978 or restoring Bailey Creek on his family farm decades later, Smith carried the same determination to fight for what he believed in and to care for the places he loved.
Richard lived a life of multitudes. He was fond of costuming, dancing, street performances, growing food for others, and planting too many trees to count. He was an avid blood donor (giving 26 gallons during his life) and encouraged others to do the same.
Richard is survived by his partner of 45 years, Violet Prihoda; daughters, Valerie and Carleen; four grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his twin brother, Robert.
His family thanks St. Croix Hospice, which made it possible for Richard to be comfortable and at home at the end of his life.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no funeral. There will be a celebration of life at a later date. To honor his memory, his family encourages friends to plant a tree or contribute to the protection of a local park — a gesture Richard would have surely appreciated.
