Kenneth E. Painter

Born in Ada, Oklahoma, the son of Clarence Edward Painter and Dorothy Elmeta Robison Painter. He was married to Lucie Metha Busch for over 65 years.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his wife, Lucie M. (Busch) Painter and their son Kenneth Richard Painter. He is survived by his daughters Sharon A. Smith and husband Butch and Sandra L. Smith and husband Jim; grandchildren Kimberley A. (Smith) Ramirez and husband Gabriel, Ronnie D. Stokes, Jason Sheppard and wife Shawna, Shannon (Smith) Hale and husband Randy, Adrienne (Smith) Schneider and husband Kevin; great grandsons Kyle Ramirez, Drake Sheppard, Ayden Sheppard, Jack Hale and Dillion Hale and great granddaughters Charlie Hale, Georgia Schneider and Ella Schneider.

Kenneth lived in Oklahoma, Arkansas, California and Dallas. When growing up, his Aunt Bert would tell you that there was never a dull moment in the house with him. This is where you heard some of the best stories. For example: they were going in to town to eat one night and she told him to go and wash up, he wanted to know if he was wearing a long sleeve or short sleeve shirt, she asked why, he said because I want to know how far up to wash. Dad's life was full of great stories.

He lived a full and adventurous life. He did everything from joining the Merchant Marines, riding bulls and broncs. Saw Babe Ruth, tried out for the Dallas Texans football team. Dad was also a repo man for many years. He could fix or repair anything. He could just tell you just what you needed and how to accomplish whatever you were trying to build or fix. He had a gift for figuring out how things worked.

He was in the movie "Tough Enough" which is about boxing. He received an award and trophy for being with the Golden Gloves for over 50 years. He himself was also a lightweight boxer and won most of his matches. He coached our Church women's softball team in 1966 and we won the State Championship. He was a member of the Sons of Hermann Fraternal Organization for over 60 years and also on the baseball team in the 1950's.

He wasn't perfect, but he had a good heart. He would help anyone he could. He lived a long, full life and had many friends. He loved to joke and kid with people and sometimes (most of the time) say the darndest things - as anyone who knew him will tell you. We will miss him a lot, but feel peace that he is with our beloved Mother now.