How very sad - thank you for sharing,

 

Ray Doern

 

Dear Cele and Family,

Please know that I am touched by Ken's passing. Many knew him well. The few years I knew Ken would easily fill a dozen. I was pleased to finally meet-up with the both of you in Tahoe a few years back. Ken was very helpful with my project in action as well as advice, and didn't hesitate to mention great referrals. That's a man dedicated to friendship first--and his love for 300s.
Most members know that meeting Ken was all it took to see the real guy. You will be missed Ken.

Regards and sincere condolences,
Ed Jasinski
San Mateo, CA

 

I had talked to Ken quite a few times over the years and once brought a 62 300 parts car from him. A true gentleman who treated me at that time a new member very well and was a source of valuable information to me. We've lost a friend for sure.

 

Jerry Lindsay

 

Dear Friends,

Sadly, Ken Smith 71 yrs old passed away yesterday, Jan. 10, after a valiant battle with ALS at their home in Sierra Vista, Arizona.  Ken and his wife, Cele were married for 49 years and have 5 sons and 13 grandchildren.  They've been car enthusiasts for many years having restored at least 18 cars.  Most were Mopars including the most recent a '69 Roadrunner, '58 Chrysler 300-D and a '61 Chrysler 300-G convertible.  They built their beautiful home and moved from Oregon in 1998. It has an extra large garage in the back of the two-acre lot with a lift.  Between that and the attached garage at least 14 big cars can be housed there.

 

His 'other hobby' was restoring lighthouses and his career was the roofing business where their sons were also involved for over 30 years in the Northwest and Hawaii.

 

Ken was past president for many years of the Chrysler 300 Club, Inc.  He and Cele hosted car shows and meets in Phoenix for many years.  He also established the northwest chapter of the WPC Club.

 

His smiling face and love of automobiles will be missed in our community and across the globe.

Services are pending.

 

God bless you Ken and your loving family as you join many others in that big garage up in the sky.

 

Sincerely,
Moana Steinberg

 

Hello 300'ly to all!

   

Very sad to hear of Ken Smith's passing.  I only learned of his diagnosis in the past 6 months.  My thoughts and prayers are with Cele.  Ken and Cele were marvelous people.  I only had the pleasure to chat with them numerous times over the past several years but it was readily apparent that they were swell folks who would go out of their way to help.  Ken was extremely helpful and accommodating in getting me those last very hard to find trim or instrument pieces that are elusive. There will always be a fond memory of Ken in my heart and mind.

 

ROB KERN

Sunday, January 10, 2010

KEN SMITH'S PASSING

To Members and Friends of The Chrysler 300 Club, Inc.:

The Chrysler 300 Club, Inc. is saddened to announce the passing of Ken Smith at 2:00 p.m. January 10th, 2010.  Ken, who was a long-time member and past president of the club, passed away at this home in Sierra Vista, Arizona after a lengthy battle against ALS.  As further details are forthcoming, we will keep all members updated.

 

Condolences are offered to Cele and the family.

 

Bruce Toelle

President