Anna J. Kerns

Anna J. Kerns WESTWOOD Kerns, Anna J. died December 23, 2009. Beloved daughter of the late John F. and Josephine (Stuka) Kerns. Dear sister of John F. and his wife Martha Kerns of Framingham, Edward J. of Hollywood, CA, Eleanor "Ellie" Kerns and her husband Jim Martinelli of Sudbury, Tess Kerns of E. Walpole and Margaret Kerns of Millis. Loving aunt of Jack, Scott, Jennifer, Emma and great aunt of Harry, Nora, Connor, Abigale, Ben, Noah and Emerson. Anna was born in Framingham, lived in Maynard for 7 years, and grew up in Framingham. Her mother suffered a debilitating illness when Anna was five years old. Anna took over the duties of her mother showing the strength that would last a lifetime. She was instrumental in keeping the family a strong cohesive unit. She remained a family leader until her death. Anna excelled in academics. She had a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and a Ph D in Physical Chemistry from Northeastern University. She worked in product development at Polaroid for more than 25 years at progressively responsible positions in manufacturing and development laboratories. Her last position was Senior Research Scintist. Anna had a penchant for math and sciences, but she had equally strong creative talents.She enjoyed wood carving, painting and making music. Although Anna loved children, she had none of her own. She had a nurturing spirit and was a loving and second-mother figure to two nephews, two nieces, two great nieces and five great nephews. Anna was a faithful friend, who never denied a request for help. She took on any project no matter how arduous, time consuming, of seemingly impossible. The projects ran the gamut: everthing from fixing a stone wall to reconstructing a shattered vase to restoring a broken antique doll. She never took and compensation from family of friends. Perhaps Anna's greatest strenth was her strong faith. She was a devout Christian and sang in St. Bernard's choir for many years. She will be greatly missed by all whe new and loved her. Funeral from the Burke & Blackington Funeral Home, 1479 Washington St., (Rte. 16), West Newton, Wednesday, December 30 at 9:30 A.M.,followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Bernard's Church, West Newton at 10:30 A.M.. Visiting hours will be Tuesday evening from 4:00 - 8:00 P.M.. Interment in Calvary Cemetery. Burke & Blackington Funeral Home www.henryburkefuneralhome.com