Kenneth Keith Smith

The gates to heaven must need a little welding because on May 3rd, 2025, Keith Smith, beloved farmer and rancher, officially fired up the big welder in the sky and got to work.  Born August 21st, 1937, and raised in the Dufur countryside, he spent his life tending to his crops and cattle with the dedication that can only come from someone who truly loves what he does. 

Keith enjoyed riding horses, hunting and fishing, and working in his shop.  But his shop wasn’t just a shop — it was a sanctuary and gathering place where young and old came to hear some of his well-earned wisdom. Keith fondly referred to these sacred sessions as “choir practice,” though it’s unclear if any hymns were actually ever sung.  What is clear is that the place was filled with gossip, laughter, questionable political correctness, and enough empty beer cans to make it qualify as a recycling center.

 Keith leaves behind many vehicles that may or may not start without a small prayer and a large kick and a herd of cats his deceased wife collected, and he pretended not to like – but always tried to coax one onto his lap to watch Perry Mason. 

Keith is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Shannon and Ryan, grandson Taylor, nieces Marni and Carrie, and nephews Jeremy and Brian.

 Services will be held on May 18th at noon at Spencer, Libby, and Powell funeral home and burial at the Kingsley Catholic Cemetery.  A celebration of his life will be held immediately after at Dave Wilson’s shop where guests are encouraged to wear suspenders, bring their favorite beer, and tell a good story.  Extra points if it involves Keith, someone falling off a horse, or both.

 Spencer, Libby and Powell Funereal Home in care of arrangements.