Published July 9, 2021
MELROSE — Kendall D. “Ken” Smith, longtime resident of Melrose, passed away on Thursday, July 1, 2021. He was 84.
Born in Newton, Ken grew up in Melrose and in 1955 graduated from Melrose High School. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1959 and was honorably discharged in 1963. In that time, Ken married his beloved Marilyn O’Connor in 1962, and the family moved to Madison, Wisconsin during his time in the service.
After his discharge, Ken and his family returned to Melrose, and he went to work as a technical writer for several electronic companies. He also received his bachelor’s degree from Boston University.
Ken’s two passions were his family and the great outdoors. He was an exceptionally attentive husband, father, and especially grandfather. He was an excellent friend, teacher, mentor, and would give you the shirt off his back. He enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s school and sporting events.
With a passion for the outdoors, Ken began his love affair with nature at an early age. As a kid, he became a member of and worked for a couple of summers with the White Mountain Trail Crew, and the Hut System. He was also a longtime member of the Appalachian Mountain Club and was a Lifetime Trustee of the Mt. Washington Observatory. He was always out hiking and taking all the beauty nature had to offer. For many years, Ken and his daughter Patty made their annual day trip hiking to the top of Mt. Washington.
Faith was also a big part of Ken’s life. He was a sixty plus year member of First United Methodist Church of Melrose. He also enjoyed working on his home and yard, traveling to Bermuda and Lake Winnipesaukee, and following the Celtics, Bruins, and Red Sox. He loved listening to all kinds of music.
Ken’s big heart, kindness, and love will be missed by all who know and loved him.
Ken was the beloved husband of Marilyn E. (O’Connor) Smith with whom he shared 59 years of marriage. Devoted father of Patricia A. Spencer and her husband Peter. Proud grandfather of Timothy and Grace. Loving brother of the late Richard Smith, and brother-in-law of Elizabeth O’Connor. Also survived by his niece Darcy of Texas.
Services will remain private. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ken’s memory may be made to First United Methodist Church, 645 Main St., Melrose, MA. 02176, Mt. Washington Observatory, PO Box 2310, N. Conway, NH., 03860, or Melrose Humane Society, PO Box 760668, Melrose, MA. 02176. To offer your condolences and support, please visit Ken’s online tribute at RobinsonFuneralHome.com
