With family by his side, Kenneth Arthur Smith, aged 94, passed away on November 15, 2024, at the Dryden Regional Health Center.
Ken is survived by his loving wife, Elsie (Marshall); his daughters, Valerie (David Borlang), Leanne (Grant Jackson), Lisa (Mike Durocher), and Judy (Calvin Skene); his grandchildren: Jamie (Mark), Kari (Dustin), Cameron (Brittany), Marshall, Mackenzie and Sean (Morgan). He is also survived by his sister Jacqueline Ballance of Edmonton, as well as several nieces and a nephew. Ken was predeceased by his infant son Michael Arthur and his parents Frank and Dorothy Smith.
Ken was born in Winnipeg and moved to Neepawa at an early age. After leaving school Ken returned to Winnipeg and went into the plastering and stucco trade. In 1955, Ken married Elsie, sharing 69 years together. In 1958, the couple moved to Dryden, where Ken joined his father in the grocery business. His father trained Ken to become the store butcher. Ken took over the business in 1972 joining the IGA group and renaming the store Hillcrest IGA. Ken and Elsie managed the store together until 1990 when they decided to close the business and embrace retirement. Ken enjoyed many years of retirement doing what he loved best; golfing, tinkering in his shop and hooking up his 5th wheel and hitting the road with Elsie.
Ken was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose love for his family was evident in all he did. He and Elsie enjoyed many adventures together, cherishing each moment they spent with their loved ones. He enjoyed life in Dryden making many friends along the way.
The family thanks the doctors, nurses and staff at Dryden Regional Health Centre who cared for Ken during his short stay.
No person is ever truly alone.
Those who live no more,
Whom we loved,
Echo still within our thoughts,
Our words, our hearts.
And what they did
And who they were
Becomes a part of all that we are,
Forever.
Condolences(6)-
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Lisa Lesage(Murdick) says
November 18, 2024 at 7:58 pmOur sincere sympathies to Val and Dave on the passing of your Dad. I remember him from the IGA when we would visit Gramma and Grandpa. He always greeted us and helped pick out penny candy.
Lori nicholson says
November 18, 2024 at 10:20 pmElsie, Val, Lea, Lisa, Judy and extended family,
So very sorry for your loss, Ken was a great man and I know he will be missed as a husband, dad and grandfather. I will always be thankful for the times he let me hang out at the camp, enjoy snowmobile rides and sleepover many a Friday night.
I am thinking of you all.
Lori (Reid as he liked to call me) and Tim Nicholson
dianne dunkeld nee Raslask says
November 19, 2024 at 9:16 pmso very sorry for your loss Elsie and family
friday night grocery shopping with my grandpa and grandma lott was the highlight of my week when I was a kid. I always got to pick out a treat.
so very sorry for your loss
Mary says
November 19, 2024 at 9:50 pmAh, Mr. Smith. I have so many wonderful memories of you and your warm smile, twinkle in your eyes and teasing spirit. A life well lived, sir! Now it’s time for a well-deserved rest. To Mrs. Smith, Val, Leanne, Lisa, my good buddy Judy, and the rest of your beautiful family, my heart goes out to all of you as you say goodbye to your loving husband, father, grandfather and above all a good man.
Much love,
Mary Lugli. xox
Linda McMahon says
November 20, 2024 at 5:59 pmTo Elsie and all of her beautiful family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you grief your loss of the most wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. With much love , Linda McMahon {nee Borlang}
Nancy Hilderman says
November 20, 2024 at 8:29 pmUncle David and Auntie Val and family
Keeping you in our warmest thoughts as you navigate this difficult time, sending love and prayers to you and your family. Always remember the special memories you all made together.
Love and Hugs, Nancy and Tim Hilderman
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Luke's Anglican Church, 50 Van Horne Avenue, Dryden, ON P8N 1C7 or a charity of your choice.