Kenneth Russell Smith, age 85, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2019 at Bethany Life in Story City, Iowa. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Stevens Memorial Chapel (607 28th St., Ames, Iowa 50010). A private burial will take place at a later date in the Ames Municipal Cemetery.
Ken was born on February 26, 1934 in Vermillion, South Dakota to Russell and Margaret (Sherk) Smith. He grew up in Vermillion, graduating from Yankton High School. Following graduation he joined the Army. Following his time in the Military, he met and married the love of his life Roberta Smith in 1957.
Ken worked as a carpenter for James Thompson and Sons, before starting his employment with Iowa State University. Ken was a longtime member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Ames. Ken enjoyed hunting, fishing for Perch, Blue Gill, and Bullheads on Big Creek, Little Wall, and Ada Hayden, always the carpenter, Ken enjoyed woodworking, as well as spending time in his garden.
Ken was preceded in death by his wife; Roberta Smith, his son; Robert Smith, as well as his parents; Russell and Margaret.
Ken is survived by his sons; Bruce (Julie) Smith of Scottsdale, AZ, and Brian (Cathy) Smith of Boone, IA, daughters; Glenda (Duane) Zavadil of Sedalia, CO, Margo (Scott) Cragle of Allen, TX, 11 grandkids, and 5 great-grandkids, along with his close friend Mary Isely.
Memorial contributions may be made in Ken’s name to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church (2210 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50014).
