Gerald Edward Kern

Gerald "Jerry" Kern January 31, 1951 - June 20, 2026 Gerald "Jerry" Kern, 75, passed away on June 20, 2026. He was a beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend whose life was defined by hard work, an unshakeable devotion to his family, and a legendary sense of humor.

Jerry's favorite chapters of life often involved the sun and the sea. In his younger days, he could be found at Haulover Beach in Miami, enjoying the ocean breeze, playing beach volleyball, and throwing frisbees with friends. It was during this vibrant time that he met Leslie. Though life later took them on separate paths, they were married and proudly raised three wonderful daughters: China, Marin, and Nikita. Jerry was a hardworking, dedicated family man who cherished every moment spent creating memories with his girls. In his later years, his heart grew even larger when he became a grandfather, taking pride and joy in his three grandchildren: Raina, Liam, and Juliana.

A lover of the outdoors, Jerry was happiest when he was surrounded by nature. He loved traveling to new places, especially when it meant visiting his children. He fondly traveled to Oregon to visit his daughter China, where he absolutely fell in love with the majestic Pacific Northwest landscape. On a special trip to St. Louis, he joyfully introduced Marin and Nikita to the wonder of the local caves, sharing his passion for adventure with them. Whether he was on a boat, casting a fishing line, or just taking a long walk, Jerry found true peace outdoors. He also had a profound love for animals of every kind, walking through life alongside his cherished pups, Lady Bug, Emma Bean, and most recently, his loyal companion, Boone.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Francis Marion Kern and Laura Edna Eppler; his sisters, Joanne Sawyer and Barbara Clipper; and his brother, James "Jimmy" Kern.

He is survived and dearly missed by his sister, Laura Grenig, and his brother, David Kern. Jerry also leaves behind Jimmy's six children, who always held a special place in his life. In particular, his nieces Danielle, Erica, Felicia, and Colleen lived close by and saw him often. The family is deeply grateful to Colleen, who stepped up with deep love and dedication to take care of Jerry when he fell ill.

Above all, Jerry lived to make people smile. Blessed with a wonderfully silly personality and a quick wit, he made it his daily mission to crack jokes and cheer up anyone in his orbit, from his daughters, nieces and nephews, and cousins, to a complete stranger waiting in the grocery store line. His warmth, laughter, and bright spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jerry's name to Gold Coast Greyhounds, the rescue group from which his beloved Emma Bean was adopted.

https://www.goldcoastgreyhounds.org/donate