Kenneth August DeSmet, age 77, passed away on March 14, 2015 at home in Lake Placid, Florida. He was Born on September 14, 1937 to August and Lucille DeSmet in Lyndon, Illinois. Kenneth grew up in Prophetstown, IL. and graduated from Prophetstown High School in 1956. After High School he joined the Navy. Ken was an outstanding basketball player both in the Navy and High school, where he still holds the record for most points scored in a game. He worked as a policeman in Alton, Il and was later employed by J. I. Case Company in Rock Island, Il. Ken married Joyce Hammond Porter in 1976 in Rock Island, Il and they were happily married for 38 years. They moved to Lake Placid, Florida in 1994. Ken was a member of the Elks Lodge, the Moose and a lifetime member of the VFW. While in Rock Island, Ken held the offices of Trustee, Governor and administrator of the Loyal Order of the Moose. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing and spending time with friends and family. He is survived by his wife, Joyce DeSmet of Lake Placid, Fl, sons, Daniel (Charlene) DeSmet of East Hampton, NY, Kenneth D. DeSmet of Lake Placid, Fl, Stepson, Randall (Robin) Porter of Naples, Fl, Stepdaughter, Lisa (Richard) Oien of Naples, Fl, brother in law, William (Judy) Hammond of Fredrick, WI, 8 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 13 nieces and nephews. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Betty Schiller, son, Kevin DeSmet, stepson, Tab Porter, his first wife, Donna Hardy and in-laws, William R. (Ileen) Hammond and Mary Ragsdale. A celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday March 21st at Scott Funeral Home, 504 W. Interlake, Lake Placid, Florida 33852 with Chaplain Ken Geren celebrating. The family suggests memorials may be made to Lake Placid Art League, P.O. Box 2739, Lake Placid, FL 33862. Words of comfort to the family can be made by visiting www.scottfuneralservices.com.