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BORN
1943
DIED
2023
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Kenneth Smith Obituary
Born: October 5, 1943 in Shabonna, IL
Died: June 14, 2023 in Mendota, IL
Kenneth L. Smith, 79, of Mendota passed away at his home on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.
The family is having a private burial Monday, June 19, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. at Troy Grove Cemetery in Troy Grove, IL. with military honors by Mendota VFW Post 4079. Following the burial there will be a celebration of life at Parkway Restaurant at 4:00 p.m. in Mendota, IL. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is assisting the family.
Ken was born October 5, 1943 in Shabonna, IL, the son of Stanley and Marion (Richards) Smith. In his first marriage he had two daughters whom he loved dearly. He later married Kathryn J. Smith on January 21, 1987, he then gained three amazing bonus daughters.
Surviving are his daughters, Kris Smith of Sterling, Kendra (Ed) Harrington of Coleta, Wendy (Jay) Klatt of Mendota, Dawn (Rob) McCollom of Mendota and Jodell "Joey" Jarman of Normal. He has 12 grandchildren: Tyler Barnes, Brooklyn (Dan) Loos, Jacob Barnes, Cheyenne Harrington, Payton Klatt, Jerett Harrington, Karsyn Klatt, Kennedy McCollom, Jalynn Jarman and Cambrie Jarman and three great grandchildren Saige Nickerson, Ellie Barnes and Cooper Loos. Also surviving are two siblings: Jack (Gloria) Smith and Marilyn Smith both of Peru and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Kathyrn Smith in 2022 and his brothers Clarence (Butch), Bill, Jimmy and Louis Smith.
Ken was employed at Northwestern Steel and Wire in Sterling, IL for 30 years. He was a foreman in the nail room and retired in 1999. Ken served in the United States Army, he was an Auxiliary Police Officer for the City of Mendota for over 30 years, a volunteer for Mendota Emergency Services and Disaster Agency and a member of the American Legion for 33 years.
He was an outdoorsman who loved to hunt and was an avid Elvis fan. However, he is most known for his daily trips to Parkway where he loved to have coffee and spend time with his Parkway family and friends.
Ken will be sadly missed by his family, friends and his beloved pup, Pippy dog!
In lieu of flowers a memorial can be made to Mendota Companion Animal Centre.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Smith
Sponsored by Horner-Merritt Funeral Home.
Sandy Burns
December 21, 2023
In memory of 55+ years of all the chats we had at Ziggies even on the post office steps about Elvis who we both loved & also the G.O.A.T POTUS our favorite President Trump. We could really talk up a storm over them & other daily/political issues. You will be greatly missed.
Sandy Burns
December 21, 2023
I send my deepest condolences to his family. I just now found out although I knew you for over 55+years. We always got along and we always had to have our chat over current & daily issues when we saw each other regardless of where we were Ziggies or even on the steps of the post office. You will be missed by all whose life you have touched.
Steve Cole
June 19, 2023
Kenny was a beloved cousin. I will always remember the respect he showed my mother Dorothy, Kenny's aunt. He visited frequently over the years and they were always close. I have fond memories of riding in Kenny's convertible when I was a kid and of his visits during the holidays. He was always fun to be around and I know our whole family enjoyed his company. We will miss him. My sympathy to the family.
Barb & Jerry Klatt
June 17, 2023
My condolences to the family. I have known Kenny since kindergarten. May you find peace and comfort in the memories.
Tina Meiners
June 17, 2023
So very sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace. Prayers for the family during this difficult time.
norma foltynewicz
June 17, 2023
My deepest sympathies to all of the family. May the Lord Jesus comfort you during this most challenging time. God bless...
Edna Inness
June 16, 2023
Sorry for your loss. I know you will miss him . Just remember all the good times.
Randy and Sara Torman
June 16, 2023
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Philip Zinke
June 16, 2023
Rest in peace my old neighbor and friend. A lot of good memories.
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