Kenneth Smith (AKA Rev. Ken)

March 12, 1939 - May 2, 2022
In loving memory ~
Dad moved to Heaven unexpectedly on May 2, 2022, at age 83 with his loving wife of 61 years by his side. Kenneth was born in York England to Eric & Irene Smith and was the eldest of three sisters, Christine(Dennis), Elizabeth, & Susie. Dad moved from England in 1956 with his family. His life changed for-ever when he worked in a Bakery, and became a Christian. Then he went to Eastern Penetecostal Bible School and became a Minister. This is where dad met the Love of his life Ilene Smith Scott, and married her August 26, 1961. Dad was predeceased by miscarried twins, sister Elizabeth, and both of his parents. All of whom he will be reunited with, in Heaven.
Dad was very proud of his Four Sons: Dave (Ning), Gord (Gail), Eric (Brenda), Steve (Marilou), Grandchildren, Kegan, Kayla/Jordy (Chrissy), Acacia/Megan (Joe), Justin/Andy (Megan), Jonathan, Ryker (Mikaela), LIam/ and two Great-Granddaughters, Alyvia & Esther.
At Age 83, Dad was still an Ordained active Minister of 62 Years occasionally performing weddings or funerals. He never really retired. He was Minister at 11 churches throughout, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and in BC. He Pastored in Castlegar for 6 years. He also helped build or renovate 4 churches. Dad was passionate about Israel and had a Love for the Jewish people. Dad acted as a tour guide on 28 tours to Israel. With this passion Dad was a Director for many years with Bridges for Peace, a Director for ICEJ, and 5 years as a Director for Christian Friends of Israel.
Dad was also a carpenter, baker, security guard, bulk newspaper distributor, oil field worker, tour and travel agent, camp director, children's camp ministry, and presbyter. Dad was also an avid reader; had a radio broadcast called Oasis of Love, and in the 70's was known as the Good Shepherd in the CB world. He was a champion checkers player and a self-taught musician with an incredible ear. He played guitar, violin, ukulele, steel guitar, accordion, piano, harpsichord, mouth organ, shofar, tambourine. and could even make music on a regular hand saw with a violin bow. He could play, mouth organ and guitar at the same time, and people often commented on his singing voice. Dad's life changed forever when Ilene, our mom, had a stroke and aneurysm in 2016, and suffered mobility issues. With a deep Love, he gave her full care to his last days, never giving up hope. When we moved Dad & Mom to Castlegar in March 2022, we struggled with the medical system to get better care for Mom. It was just starting to get better, but very wearing on Dad.
The stories of people Dad helped over the years keep rolling in, and we don't believe he knew on earth how much he was loved and impacted so many. He Loved people with boldness, always making conversation with strangers and often wouldn't leave a conversation without handing out a gospel track and ask: "Do you Know Jesus?",' he can help you with whatever you are going through!
We will have a Celebration of Life on July 2, 2022 at New Life Church in Castlegar.