Richard "Red" Kern
December 18, 2017
Richard F. Kern, 85, passed away December 18, 2017. He was born November 3, 1932, in Rockford, IL to Frank and Florence Kern.
Dick was a proud graduate of East High School. He attended Grand View College and received his bachelor’s degree in teaching from Drake University. Dick enjoyed the Drake Relays and attended for more than 50 years.
Dick was a member of the East High Alumni Association, All Saints Catholic Church, Izaak Walton League, and the Des Moines Pioneer Club. He coached softball and girls’ basketball, track, and cross country over the years.
Dick was an avid runner and walked daily. He was very talkative and a friend to all.
He always said Kari was the best birthday gift he ever received as she was born on his birthday.
Dick is survived by his wife of 30 years, Dorothy “Dottie” Kern; daughter, Kari Kern; as well as other loving family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and special cousin, Patricia Kellogg.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 22, 2017, at All Saints Catholic Church, 650 NE 52nd Avenue in Des Moines with burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday evening from 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Drake University or Grand View College in loving memory of Dick.
The family would like to thank the staff of Ramsey Village Continuing Care and Iowa Methodist Medical Center for the good care Dick received.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Merlea Schultz
12/21/2017
Dottie and Kari......you are both in my thoughts and prayers. I feel so lucky to have enjoyed Dick's friendship and sense of humor for all these years....what fun we had at AAA!
Roberta Tassell
12/21/2017
I am so sorry for your loss, and yes the Kernel was a good friend to all, especially my late husband. May God comfort you at this sad time..
Mary Gutierrez
12/20/2017
So sorry for your loss. May GOD's word comfort you during this difficult time. Isaiah 26:19; Rev.21:4.
leon r pitzen
12/20/2017
Dottie
My condolences to you and your family.
All the best to you going foreward
Leon Pitzen