Kenneth E. Kern Jr.

Kenneth E. Kern Jr.
Kenneth E. Kern Jr, 73, of Godley Il. passed away peacefully Jan. 30, 2023.
Kenneth was born Aug 12, 1949 to the late Kenneth Kern Sr and Joyce (Kline) Kern.
He served time in the U.S. Army and was educated in Morris schools.
Ken was a jack of all trades. There wasn't a thing he couldn't fix or didn't have a part for in his garage. He enjoyed spending time with his dog "Buddy Bud" and was never hesitant to let everyone know that was his favorite child! He was a social butterfly and truly didn't know a stranger. He loved to entertain with stories of the past so outrageous one couldn't help but wonder if they had any merit, but also confident in their truth because he was also well known for his no nonsense honesty. Ken had a way of charming his way in to people's lives. With his piercing blue eyes, his snow white beard, and his infectious chuckle, he held an uncanny resemblance to Santa Claus. He will forever be missed for his never ending sense of humor and his gentle hearted nature.
Kenneth is survived by his children David (Kim) Kern of Dwight, Robin Esparza of Braidwood, Dottie (Doug) Savarino of Braidwood and Cindie Kern of Joliet; 11 grandchildren and 1 great grandson; as well as his siblings Ray Kern of Princeton, Gary (Linda) Kern of Princeton, Debra (Eugene) Pfister of St. Charles Mo, and Don Kern of Townsend Ga.
Kenneth was proceeded in death by his parents, sister in law Louis Kern, and grandson Jensen Esparza.
Cremation rites were accorded. Graveside services will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood on Fri Feb 17 at 1:00 with military honors being conducted. The family invites all their friends and family to join in a celebration of Kens life immediately following the services at the VFW. Wilmington.
Preferred memorials in Kenneth's name may be made to the family for their distribution.