Kenneth A. Smith

Ken embraced life with energy, curiosity, a sense of humor and positive attitude. He enjoyed skiing, scuba diving, and racquetball in his early years. A lifelong believer in service, he devoted countless hours to his community. He was an active volunteer with the York Little Theatre and began his political involvement as a member of the York County Teenage Republicans, where he held several elected positions. He later continued that commitment through active involvement with the Berks County GOP.

Ken served as a Director of the York Jaycees and chaired a fundraiser for Easter Seals. After relocating to Berks County and facing a diagnosis of end-stage renal disease, he transformed personal challenge into advocacy by co-founding the Berks Coalition for Organ and Tissue Donation. He was also a founding board member of the Exeter Community Education Foundation, served six years on the Exeter School District Board of Education, and later dedicated another six years as an Exeter Township Supervisor.

Ken enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1970 as a weather observer and completed his military service with the Air National Guard in 1975. Professionally, he worked in Employee Benefits for Dentsply and VF Corporation before embarking on a second career as a stockbroker and financial advisor, where he continued to help others plan for the future.

In 1991 Ken received a kidney transplant. He met and became close to the donor family, who gave him that precious gift of life.

Ken is survived by his wife of 41 years, Daria; his son, Alex; daughter-in-law, Katie; grandson, Wilder; and brother, Art. Time spent with his family and friends, traveling and cooking brought him joy.

A celebration of life will be planned at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gift of Life Donor Program, 401 North 3rd Street Philadelphia, PA 19123 or at www.donors1.org/give.