Kenneth Mark Smith

Kenneth M. Smith, a long-time Riverside resident, passed away on March 6, 2023, at 89 years of age. He is survived by Betty, his loving wife of 70 years. His surviving siblings include Bernita Tjaden (Roger); Bob; Norm (Becky); and Jim. He is also survived by his children: Julie Shay; Bridget Wright (Phil); Kevin (Debbie); Kermit (CeCe); Kerry (Rose); and Kurt. Many people know him as Kenny, but he is also known and loved as "Grandpa Kenny" by 14 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Kenny was born in Wagner, South Dakota, on April 20, 1933 to Henry (Hank) and Esther Smith; he was one of eight children. As a young man, Kenny moved to Inglewood, California where he joined a few family members who had previously moved there. While there, he soon met his future wife, Betty Undem. They married and began a family as Kenny worked as a plastering contractor. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Riverside, California. Kenny continued to build his stucco business, mainly in the Inland Empire; he worked as a plasterer for over 50 years, plastering custom homes, as well as office and restaurant buildings.

Kenny's favorite pastime was spending time with his growing family, be it birthday parties, holiday get-togethers, or other special celebrations. Over the years, he and Betty enjoyed family vacations to various locations, some of which were road trips to states in the West and Midwest, as well as cruise trips to New England, Mexico, Canada, and Norway. But a traditional favorite trip in the summer was a trip to Lake Tahoe, which usually included camping, fishing, and rafting.

At the heart of his commitment to family and hard work was his commitment to his Christian faith. This commitment manifested itself in the way he continually studied God's Truth and lovingly shared it with others. He was an active member in his church for decades, ministering to others, conducting baptisms, and officiating weddings. Also, he would travel to speak at church conventions across the country.

At this time, he may be parted from family and friends, but he sleeps in hope as a servant in Christ, awaiting the resurrection.

A memorial service for Kenneth will be held Tuesday, March 28, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary, 7944 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92504.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AchesonandGraham.com for the Smith family.