Kenneth Leroy Smidt Jr., 54, of Redfield, SD, passed away Thursday, September 5, 2024, at his residence.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 17, at Hyke Funeral Home in Redfield.  The service will be live-streamed on the funeral home's website below Kenneth's obituary.

Kenneth's family asks that in lieu of flowers, please consider monetary donations to help offset the cost of funeral expenses.  Please click the donation tab under Kenneth's obituary on the funeral home's website (www.hykefuneralhome.com).

Kenneth was born on November 28, 1969, a son of Kenneth and Joann (Way) Smidt in Huron, SD.

He lived most of his life in South Dakota.  He was known to many as a good friend, a car whisperer, a handyman, and a chef.

Kenneth is survived by his mother, Joann Jungers of Redfield, his father Kenneth (Margaret) Smidt Sr. of Hartford, SD, and his partner of 17 years, Loren Richards of Redfield.  He is also survived by his sons: Alan James Steele and Benjemain (Brianna) Smidt and his child Aubree.  He is also survived by his daughter Catherine (Michael) Fetter and their children: Abby, Taylor, Connor, and Katy.  He will be remembered by his many friends.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Willard and Lucille Way, paternal grandparents Mike and Dean Smidt, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.