Kenny (Kenneth) Cutler Smith, age 36, of Grand Rapids, Michigan passed away Sunday, July 24, 2022. Kenny was born in Grand Rapids in 1986, the son of Kevin P. Smith and Kerri S. Mowry. He graduated from Forest Hills Northern class of 2004, and he attended Compass Academy Film School.
Kenny was a gifted artist and worked in graphic design. He was an amazing writer, using words with eloquence to convey compassion, sensitivity, and humor. Kenny easily made friends and left a lasting impression because of his excitement, enthusiasm, devotion, and love of life. Inclusivity of everyone was very important to him and he was always completely and authentically himself, no matter what.
Kenny had a passion for reading, music, and movies, especially involving Marvel and DC comics, Star Wars, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Pee Wee Herman, to name a few. He loved children; and would gladly cut a phone call short when his neighbor knocked on his door to ask him to “come out and play”. Kenny had a big heart and a special connection with animals and was devoted to those who surrounded him at home.
Kenny is predeceased by his mother, Kerry S. Mowry, and survived by his father Kevin P. Smith (Lori Smith); brother, Kolin H. Smith (Lucy Engelman); sister, Kailey M. Smith; aunts, Sharon Smith, Terri Hein, and Lisa Trosien; godparents, Linda, and John Keating; best four-legged friends, Tuli, Matt Dillon and Newt, and many other beloved family and friends.
A service will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2022, at O’Brien Eggebeen Gerst Funeral Home located at 3980 Cascade Road, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. There will be a visitation from 12:00 to 2:00 followed by prayer and an opportunity to openly share stories and memories at 2:00. Those attending are encouraged to wear orange, Kenny’s favorite color, as some part of their attire. For those who wish, memorials may be made to The Diatribe ( thediatribe.org ) The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities or to The Kent County Animal Shelter, 711 Ball Avenue NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
One Response
I got to know Kenny this past winter when I was at his house nearly every day helping his friend who was renting the spare bedroom. He always welcomed me any time of the day or night that I had to be there. We had time to talk and reminisce about some fun times in the past as he had dated my daughter when they were young and he told a lot of stories from his days at the 321 House. His creativity showed throughout the house and the space reflected Kenny in every way. I enjoyed seeing his old videos and memorabilia. When the time came for the friend to move into his own apartment, it felt sad to say good by to Kenny and we agreed to stay in touch. I grew quite fond of Kenny and he was a friend and like a son to me. I am so saddened by the news of his death and will miss him. I’m praying for the family and all of the friends who are grieving. May God give you comfort.