Kenneth D. Smith

Kenneth D. Smith entered into rest on Friday, August 16, 2024. Son of the late Delmar Clark Smith and the late Ida Lena Marie Hutchins nee Mehlberg; dedicated husband of 64 years to his wife Angela May Smith nee Wones; beloved father of Catherine (Gary) Bieg nee Smith, Rosalie Smith, Michael (Hughes Bates) Smith and Andrew (Karen) Smith; loving grandfather of Justin (Kristi) Bieg and Jessica (Steve) Mansker nee Bieg; cherished great grandfather of Brooke Bieg, Jake Bieg, Jackson Mansker, Bailey Mansker and Connor Mansker; dear brother of Sharon (Frank) Schwab nee Smith, Donna (George) Julian nee Smith, Larry Smith and Gary Smith. Ken was predeceased by his late sisters and late brothers Shirley Boston nee Smith, Barbara Ann Smith, Robert Smith, Edward Smith and Dennis Smith. 

Born into humble beginnings, Ken rose above his circumstances through sheer determination and hard work. He proudly served his country in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War, demonstrating unwavering courage and dedication.

It was through his military service that Ken found his true calling as a registered certified nurse anesthetist. His passion for his work was evident to all who knew him, and he was highly respected by his colleagues and patients alike. He was a past President of the Missouri Association of Nurse Anesthetists. His commitment to his profession was matched only by his love for his family, whom he cherished deeply.

In his leisure time, Ken was fond of fishing, golfing, bowling and was an automobile and horse racing enthusiast.

Ken’s legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and dedication. He built a stable and loving foundation for his children, ensuring they had the opportunities he worked so hard to create. His life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of a kind and generous spirit.

A visitation will be held from 4-8pm on Thursday, August 22 at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South City Chapel, where friends and family will gather to celebrate Kenneth's remarkable life and legacy. A visitation starting at 10am followed by a funeral mass starting at 11am on Friday, August 23 will be held at The Chapel at Laclede Groves 723 South Laclede Station Road Webster Groves 63119. We will meet at the funeral home at 12pm to travel in procession for interment that will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on Monday, August 26 at 12:30pm.