Kenneth C. Schmierer

Ken Schmierer, 78, of Ellendale, ND, passed away on December 9, 2025 in Aberdeen, SD at Mother Joseph Manor. Born June 22, 1947, in Pittsburgh, PA, Ken moved to Ellendale as an infant and graduated from Ellendale High School and Northern State University.

He spent 25 years with Payless Shoe Source, helping the company grow from 500 to over 5,000 stores, and later served as Vice President at Stored Value Systems in El Paso, TX. After retiring to Ellendale in 2004, Ken devoted himself to community service, founding the Ellendale Walk of Fame and serving on boards for the local arts council, Opera House, and Prince of Peace. He was active in promoting arts, tourism, and historical preservation.

Ken loved music-favorites included Bob Dylan and John Prine, art, travel, and sports—especially the Kansas Jayhawks. He enjoyed good food, wine, and exploring science topics. Known for his compassion, Ken cared deeply for Ellendale’s stray cats, ensuring many found homes.

He is survived by sisters Pam Schmierer of St. Paul, MN, and June Salwei of Cheyenne, WY, along with niece Eliza Krall and nephews Jeff Salwei, Nathan Cage, Adrian Young and Jason Grote. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lillian and Walt; siblings Alan and Cheryl; and his beloved cat, Frank.

A memorial service will be held 1pm Saturday, May 23rd at Presbyterian United Methodist Church, 421 5th Ave, Ellendale, ND with Pastor Becca Hafner officiating. A 3pm reception to follow at the Ellendale Opera House, 55 Main St., Ellendale, ND. Burial is at Ellendale City Cemetery. Ken’s service will be live streamed at hovenfuneralchapel.com on his obituary page. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale.

To watch the service live: keep moving down this page and watch for a black box. At time of the service, click the red area to start the live stream. Please note the service is also recorded and saved here for viewing at a later time.