KENNETH ANDREW SMITH ~ Class of 2003
March 29, 1985 - January 11, 2007

From the father of Kenneth Andrew Smith, who took his own life on the evening of January 10, 2007.

Ken was born at Kadlec Hospital on March 29, 1985. He attended preschool at First Lutheran Church. Ken's Mom, Barbara ('75-RIP), was a teacher, and so when possible he attended grade school where she taught, both in Pasco and Richland. He completed middle and high school in Richland, where he was involved in band and graduated in 2003.

Sadly, his Mother who valued education so highly, had passed away one year earlier, and wasn't there to see that diploma. Ken also was very involved in the Radio Broadcasting program at Tri-Tech where he hosted a radio show. He returned to Tri-Tech after graduation to assist teacher Ed Daley.

After high school, Ken attended Portland Art Institute where he studied computer graphic design for awhile before returning to the Tri-Cities. While working various jobs in retail he constantly practiced his drawing, writing, and creating electronic music.

He married his wife, Briana in September of 2005 in a ceremony performed by Briana's brother Derek.

Though Ken divided his time between two homes because of divorce, both households regularly attended church. He professed faith in Jesus Christ at a young age, witnessed to friends, and was baptized at age eight at Tri-City Christian Center by Pastor Merle Gebers.

As a young adult, Ken developed a healthy skepticism and opened his mind to other ideas.

The family celebrated Ken and Briana's happy marriage. Later, trouble set in.

Friends and family who interacted with Kenny recently detected no sign of depression or despair. The evening of his death he visited his grandparents, Rollin and Helen Smith, and talked of future projects with his Grandpa and his career interests for the future. Later, while Ken was home in a room by himself, something happened that placed a burden on him that he couldn't carry. He opted out.

Ken received prompt care from his friends at Kennewick Fire and Police Departments, and was rushed to Kadlec hospital. His wound was not survivable and he expired in the early hours of January 11, 2007.

I am so glad I had the honor of being Ken's Dad. He was a smart, fun, considerate kid, and a good man.

Although we mourn his loss, we have joy in the knowledge that he is with the Lord, who loved Ken so much. He suffered death to purchase this young man's place in His kingdom.

We are deluged in the prayers of friends we didn't know we had, and now know the 'Peace that passes all understanding.'

Ken was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Mary McClung and mom, Barbara Maria Smith.

He is survived by wife, Briana, father, Jeff and his wife, Ann, brothers, Bradley and Albert, grandparents, Rollin and Helen Smith, grandpa, Bill McClung and uncles, Paul McClung, Dave McClung, Steve McClung and families.

A memorial service will be held this Saturday, January 20 at 11 a.m. The location is Bethel Church, 600 Shockley Road, Richland, 628-0150.

Donations in Ken's name can be made to the Tri-Cities Chaplaincy, 2108 W. Entiat Ave., Kennewick, WA 99336.