Kenneth "Ken" Denton Smith

Age 74, of Monticello, Minnesota, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

Kenneth was born in Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Vera Ellois McGrady and Albert Kenneth Smith. He was the oldest of three boys, raised in Mountain Air and Bosque Farms. He graduated from Los Lunas High School in 1969, the same year he moved to Minnesota, where he would build his life and family.

In 1979, Kenneth met the love of his life, Diane. They met while working for McDonald’s on Snelling Avenue in Saint Paul. They were married in 1980 and built a life centered on faith, love, and family. In 1982, they welcomed their one and only daughter, Katina, who remained a central joy in his life.

He spent many years working as a skilled carpenter, where his craftsmanship and dedication were evident in all he built. In 1991, he answered a higher calling and devoted his life to preaching the Word of God, sharing his faith with compassion and conviction. He faithfully preached at First Baptist Church of Monticello for 35 years.

Kenneth found great joy in woodworking and fishing, especially fishing for walleye. He was known for his loving, patient, and generous spirit. A strong and supportive man, he cherished his family above all else and took great pride in the lives of those he loved. His granddaughters and great-grandchildren were the light of his life. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Smith; his daughter, Katina Smith (Chris Taylor); his biological father Albert Smith(Cindy); brother, Tim Smith (Terri Smith); nephews Jason Smith (Jody), and Mike Sander (Alyssa); niece Heather Maki (Troy); his granddaughters, Natalia Smith (Blake Maegi) and Amya Smith (Brian Eblen); and his great-granddaughters, Kinsley Craig and Blair Eblen. He is also lovingly remembered by a great-grandson, due in October, who will carry on his name.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Jessie and Vera McGrady; his parents, Vera “Lois” and Roger Rustad; his mother-in-law, Luella Sander; his brother, Keith Smith; his brothers-in-law, Steven and Richard Sander; and Nephew Matt Sander. 

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Peterson-Grimsmo Funeral Home in Monticello. Visitation will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by the service at 3:00 p.m. 

Kenneth will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his faith, his strength, and the love he gave so freely to his family and all who knew him.

"In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." — John 14:2–3

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kenneth "Ken" Denton Smith, please visit our floral store.