Kenneth J. Smith, 71, of Orwigsburg, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, April 14.
Born in Pottsville on November 7, 1954, he was the son of the late Kathryn “Dolly” (Sheipe) Smith and William “Kelly” F. Smith, Sr.
Ken was a graduate of Blue Mountain High School and later attended Reading Business Institute. He began his working career as a manager at Boscov’s before joining the Lynn Ladder Factory in Orwigsburg, where he worked for many years. In addition to his other work, Ken was also self-employed as a farmer, a role he took great pride in.
Ken was well known for his friendly nature, sense of humor, and love of conversation. He proudly served as the chairman of the coffee club at Sheetz and Rutter’s, where he enjoyed spending time with friends and sharing stories. He was also the proud owner of Second Mountain Sunflowers, where he found joy in driving his tractor and giving rides through the sunflower fields to visitors. His warm smile and generous spirit made him a friend to many.
He is survived by his loving family, including his sister, Margaret “Peggy,” wife of Edward Guistwite; his brother, Robert “Bup” Smith; his niece Chantel, wife of Josh Cresswell. His nephew Jeromy Guistwite, husband of Kristi Clemas.  Other nieces are Mia, wife of Nicholas Wink , Lauren Smith, and Sheena Smith.  He will also be deeply missed by his close friends, Heath Mitchell, Jennifer Schreckengost, and Wilmer Stoltzfus.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Frederick Smith and William “Bill” Smith, Jr., and his nephew, Bryan Smith.
A religious service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 20, at Hamilton-Breiner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Orwigsburg. A visitation with the family will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Rev. Jeff Johnson will officiate.
Interment will follow at Kimmels Cemetery, Orwigsburg.