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The Life of RICHARD FRANK KERN

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.

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