Richard “Rich” “Itchy” J. Smessaert, age 65, of Appleton, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026 at Meadowbrook of Appleton.

Rich was born on May 1, 1961 in Geneseo, IL, son of the late Henry & Mary (Macklin) Smessaert. He was a graduate of Aledo High School, class of 1979. Rich enjoyed reading, working with computers, and watching Sports, especially the Bears, Cubs, and Nascar. Rich also loved spending time with this family, and his nieces and nephews were very special to him.

Rich is survived by his sister and brother-in-law: Margaret & Troy Campbell; family: Crystal Thompson and Natalie (Kevan) Brown and their children: Aidan, Logan, and Evan; nieces and nephew: Heather (Shawn) Schneider, Stephanie Schmidt, and Justin Campbell; great-nieces and great-nephews: Marissa, Jacob, Anthony, and Lola; many cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infants brothers; step-son: Eric; two of the three triplet nephews: baby boy and Christopher Campbell; a twin niece: Holly Campbell; and other relatives.

A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at Aledo Cemetery in Mercer County, Illinois, 61231. Family and friends are invited to gather for this service.

Online condolences may be made www.pielhop.com

The Smessaert Family has chosen Pielhop Funeral Homes & Cremation Care Centers to honor Rich’s Legacy of Life.