Smedberg, Ken Obituary

Smedberg, Ken attended Elk Grove High School in Elk Grove, CA. View the obituary, post a memory, or share a photo about Smedberg, Ken.

Graduation Year	Class of 1961
Date of Passing	May 10, 2016
About	"I just wanted to let all of you know that my dear hubby of over 50 years passed away on May 10th. He endured a long battle with pancreatic cancer since 2012. The family decided to have a celebration of his life event on Friday, June 17th at the Elk Grove Park Pavilion from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Since we lived in Pollack Pines for 38 years we did loose contact with so many classmates. Its amazing to remember is that Ken’s dad, TR Smedberg helped plant the oak trees in the park and my dad, Carl Amundsen, had the Rhoads Schoolhouse moved there and was a ring leader in restoring the Elk Grove House & Stage Stop both in the park area now. So, it seems fitting to have a celebration in the park. If you can make it, just bring some picnic style food and beverage for yourself. Also, if you know someone who might like to know about the celebration, (especially his EGHS class of ’61) please feel free to let them know. If you have any questions you may call me at 916-749-9402. - Now I will cry, best to all, Bonnie” Kenneth Smedberg, a former resident of Elk Grove died at home in Lincoln on May 10, 2016 following a long, tough battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 73. Ken was born Jan. 22, 1943 in Sacramento to T.R. and Irene Smedberg, and grew up in Elk Grove, marrying an Elk Grove girl, Bonnie Amundson in 1965. During the Vietnam War he volunteered for the Marine Reserves and, said his family, he gained skills, not the least of which was a toughness and drive for excellence. Ken worked for the state of California, first with DMV for seven years, then 24 years with the Department of Rehabilitation. During those years he became an avid runner and cyclist and for more than three decades he helped countless numbers of friends and co-workers make healthier lifestyle choices. They moved to Pollock Pines in 1977 where he became even more involved with outdoor activities. His family said, “It was also around this time it became obvious that Ken Smedberg never met a stranger…His house and property, along with a reputation for being the perfect host, made 'Smedberg Pines' a favorite watering hole - joy, laughter and dancing were key features. Annual and spontaneous parties involving activities like golf, bocce ball and horseshoes were regularly enjoyed by so many.” Ken is survived by his wife Bonnie; sons Darin and Eric (wife Jen); daughter Nicole (husband Tim) and their three children; and his brother Ron. A celebration of life will take place Friday, June 17 at the Elk Grove Park Pavilion from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Guests are asked to bring picnic-type food and beverages for themselves. Remembrances may be made to the American Cancer Society. - Information from the Elk Grove Citizen