Daniel Kenneth Smith
Smith, Daniel Kenneth
May 17, 2026. Beloved husband of Kyoung Ae “Kay” (nee Mussehl) Smith; loving father of Joanne Smith; devoted brother of Susan (David) Nies. Also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. The family gathered privately to honor his life. Memorials may be made in Daniel’s memory to an animal rescue of your choice. Arrangements by The Dietrich Funeral Homes, Inc.; online condolences may be shared at www.TheDietrichFuneralHome.com.
Danny was born and raised in Buffalo. A devoted family man, who loved his wife and daughter, Danny knew how to take the scenic route. He worked hard and knew how to enjoy life’s blessings. He was a huge Elvis fan. Huge! Rumor has it, he’d break out in song back in the day. He was a Bills fan too, and an active news-junkie.
As a kid, Danny worked at his family’s business, Groth’s Fruit Market. After graduating from Seneca Vocational High School, Dan served in Vietnam and talked about his time there often. He retired from the phone company and started working with his wife Kay at her business, Lords ‘n Ladies Hair Design and later helped his daughter with hers.
He was creative, a builder and a helper. He built beautiful decks, trellises and a scrapbook room for his daughter. Even more, he built a beautiful foundation for his family, one of generosity, integrity and compassion. Everyone says he was a great guy, easy-going and they loved listening to his stories. His daughter says he was strong, caring and protective and shared his love of photography and stargazing too.
Above all, Danny loved his life, loved his family and his pets. He is now resting in the loving arms of Jesus.
Please share your fond memories, the family would love to hear them.
Crank it loud, hold it down til I get there. And when I do~ I hope you got some new stories to tell. Til then, give heaven some hell♡ Thanks for everything Unc Dan
Your niece Lynn Nies
I knew Danny from our fun days at Groth’s and then at the phone company. He was always a friend and a fun person! I never knew Danny to say anything bad about anyone and never have known anyone to say anything bad about Dan! He was a very happy family man and a talented individual
May the good Lord welcome him into paradise!!
Hi Lenny! Thank you for this. Your kind words mean so much. My Dad loved to tell the story of when I was little 🙂 I don’t remember it, of course, but he thought it was cute. Were we all at a restaurant? Maybe you can let Janet know? Anyway, thank you! Grace and Peace to you, Joanne.
I knew Danny through his sister Susie, who is my sister in law. Danny was always present at family gatherings. And I will always remember his wonderful stories,his beautiful smile and his hearty laugh. He was truly a beautiful, compassionate, and loving human being and our lives are better because Danny was part of our lives.
My love to Kay, Joanne, Sue and the rest of our family.
Our deepest condolences for the loss of your dear dad and husband. May your memories together bring you peace and comfort in the days and months ahead. He sounds like a wonderful man.
~Nancy & Evangelos G.
Oh Dan,
I Always enjoyed passing the time with you at the front desk of Lords N Ladies….You were always so fun to talk with….about being a vet, the Phone Company or just shooting the breeze with a real funny story where our faces would be red with laughter….I’ll tell you, the only regret I have is to have not given you more hugs and kisses in thanksgiving for your Service to our Country!!! So once again, thank you for your sacrifice, Dan and your love for others and service to our Community all these years…..your reward in Heaven must be great !!!!!
Love You,
Marilyn (Lord’s N Ladies)
Oh Dan,
I Always enjoyed passing the time with you at the front desk of Lords N Ladies….it was always so nice to talk with….about being a Veteran, the Phone Company or just shooting the breeze or a real funny story where our faces would be red with laughter….I’ll tell you, the only regret I have is to have not given you more hugs and kisses in thanksgiving for your Service to our Country!!! So once again, thank you for your sacrifice, Dan and your love for others and service to our Community all these years…..your reward in Heaven must be great !!!!!
Love You,
Marilyn (Lord’s N Ladies)