Ken Smith

Kenneth “Ken” Smith, 90, of Cedar Falls, Iowa, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025. Ken was born on August 20, 1935, in Buck Grove, Iowa, to Viola and Jim Smith, and grew up in Aplington. After serving his country, he returned home in 1956 and soon moved to Cedar Falls with the love of his life, Donis. Ken and Donis were married on October 5, 1956, and built a beautiful life together. They raised two children, Kim and Scott, and shared 67 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Ken dedicated 37 years to the Cedar Falls Fire Department, where his hard work, courage, and sense of humor earned him lifelong friendships. A true handyman, Ken was always ready to lend a helping hand — whether it was fixing something, building something, or simply making someone smile. Summers were best spent at Round Lake, where Ken’s talent for fishing (especially walleye and crappies) was unmatched. He taught his kids and grandkids to waterski and continued this hobby well into his 70s. He loved traveling with Donis to Florida, Alabama, Gulf Shores, South Padre, Hawaii, Alaska, and Maine, collecting memories and stories along the way. Even in his later years, Ken cherished his social time — from Friday morning coffee with friends to happy hours filled with laughter. Above all, Ken was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, and great-grandpa. His greatest joy came from time spent with family and friends, sharing stories, teasing with a grin, and simply being together. Ken is survived by his children, Kim (Jeff) Thompson and Scott Smith; four grandchildren, Mattie (Marty) Testroet, Kallie (Dylan) Boos, Siera (Andrew) Krogman, and Chase (Erica) Smith; ten great-grandchildren, Dylan, Brody, Brooks, Shea, Rhys, Liv, Ryker, Everly, Kendall, and Conner; and many special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donis; his parents; his brother, Elmer; his mother- and father-in-law; his daughter-in-law, Marcia, and his great-granddaughter, Charlie Joy. Ken’s family and friends will remember him for his big heart, steady hands, easy laughter, and the love he gave so freely. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Orchard Hill Church in Cedar Falls. Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 5th at Richardson Funeral Service in Cedar Falls. Burial at Oak Hill Cemetery in Parkersburg.

Ken Smith

August 20, 1935 - November 2, 2025