Christopher Lee Kern

Christopher Lee Kern, 50, of Lexington, KY, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on November 1, 2024.
Born and raised in Lexington, Chris graduated from Lexington Catholic High School before embarking on a distinguished military career. He served for ten years on active duty in the United States Army, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Col. Lee Hardesty. After transitioning to the reserves, Chris remained dedicated to his service, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class, Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 397 Regiment.
A lifelong learner, Chris earned a degree from Eastern Kentucky University. His intellectual curiosity extended beyond the classroom to his love of reading and passionate enthusiasm for eastern philosophy, Korean cooking, and world cultures.
Chris was a dedicated weight lifter, and his strength was legendary. At his gym Big Blue Strength, he achieved incredible goals while also having fun with his fellow gym members. It was only days before his passing he was found effortlessly pushing his cousin Scarlett across the gym floor on a sled.
His physical strength was matched only by his immense kindness. Chris brought warmth, steadiness, and happiness to any room he entered. Always up for thoughtful discussions on science fiction, politics, or philosophy, he enjoyed connecting one on one with his loved ones. He was giving - always the first to volunteer for tasks like building Christmas toys for his younger cousins. He was a gift to all who knew him.
We mourn the incredible loss of Chris's gentle and steady presence. He is preceded in death by grandparents Patricia and Lee Hardesty, cousin Elizabeth Goldey, and uncle Greg Goldey. He is survived by his mother, Jean Hardesty (Dave Mueller), Aunts Connie Hardesty, Sharon Hardesty (Eddie Jacobs), and Cindy Hardesty (Gary Landers), uncle Kevin Hardesty, cousins Scarlett, Tyler (Ali Consalvi), Sydney, Collin, Katie, Shelby, James, Wyatt, Krispin, Éowyn, Harvey, and Flynn, step siblings Ben, Tina (Ron Zappile), niece Florence, and his beloved cat Sarah.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Lexington Humane Society in Chris's name. https://lexingtonhumanesociety.org/donate/