Leslie 'Les' Edward Smithson

Leslie 'Les' Edward Smithson, of Kennesaw, passed away on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at the age of 57. Les was born on April 3, 1959 in St. Louis, Missouri, a son of the late Joseph and Francis Bandoni.

In his early years Les played basketball in both high school and college. Fishing and hunting were two activities he enjoyed with friends. After college, Les began his work career and later retired after fifteen dedicated years as the Operations Manager at Kenwood Telecom.

In describing Les anyone would say his kind heart and genuine spirit were staples to his life long character. His calming demeanor and sense of humor allowed many to call him a wonderful friend. Though Les found gratification in many hobbies and activities throughout his life, his greatest accomplishment was being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather; he will certainly be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Along with his parents, Les is preceded in death by one granddaughter, Briana Typer.

Les is survived by his loving wife of sixteen years, Kristine Smithson; one daughter, Melissa (Jason) Katherman; two sons, Jason Smithson and Bryan Smithson; step-children, Zach (Bailey) Typer, Seth (Sasha) Typer, and Thane (Brooke) Typer; three siblings, Debra, David, and Anna; fourteen grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews also survive.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, November 2, 2016 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home in Kennesaw with a Celebration of Life to following day at 1:00 pm. Inurnment will follow at the Niche of Hope at Pine Ridge Memorial Park in Kennesaw on Friday, November 4, 2016 at 4:00 pm.