Obituary of Robert Russell Kern

Of Mt. Morris, age 76, died Saturday, October 6, 2012, at his home. The funeral service will take place Tuesday, October 9, 2012, at 11:00am, at the Mt. Morris Church of Christ. Pastor Ray Claudel will officiate with burial to follow at Flint Memorial Park. Robert's family will be present at the Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris to receive friends on Monday, October 8, 2012, from 12:00noon until 8:00pm. On Tuesday, Robert will be taken to church to lie in state from 10:00am until time of service at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may direct memorial contributions to the family, that will be donated to a special friend in need. Envelopes are available at the funeral home and at church. Robert was born June 16, 1936, in Flint, Michigan, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank and Marie (Schoph) Kern. Locally educated, Robert went to Mt. Morris High School before going to work for General Motors for 33 years. He and Carol Beagle were united in marriage in May of 1953, and their family would expand to include two sons, three daughters, and their spouses. After retiring from General Motors, Robert and his wife bought a camp ground in Paradise, Michigan, known as Lake Superior Camp Ground. The two owned and operated the business together for 15 years before returning to Mt. Morris. Robert enjoyed playing marbles, doing puzzles, hunting and fishing with his grandchildren, and visiting the dump in Paradise to bear watch. He also loved spending time with his family and helping out in his community, but before anything else, God always came first. Left to cherish his memory are five children, Robert Kern, Jr., and wife, Katrina, Shirley Kern-Beasley and husband, Robert, Peggy Kern-Smith and husband, Edward, Michael Kern and wife, Kathy, Bethany Kern and husband, Paul; 31 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren; sister, Darline Cotterman and husband, Chuck. Sadly, Robert was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and two brothers, Devere and Louis. Roberts' family would like to extend a special thank you to his son, Robert, Jr., and his wife, Katrina for taking such great care of him, as well as to Dawn Kern, Paul Rumsey and Avalon Hospice for their care and support.