Jerome Bernard Kahn

Jerome Bernard Kahn, 94, of Florida, passed away on March 21, 2026. He was born in Pelham, Georgia, on March 4, 1932, to Barney and Frances Kahn.

He was born into a family defined by hard work, patriotism, and deep compassion-values that would become the foundation of his character and the way he lived his life. To all who knew him, Jerry embodied those principles as a compassionate, hard-working, energetic, and no-nonsense man whose drive and determination shaped both his own path and the lives of many around him. Recognizing and nurturing these qualities, his parents sent him to Georgia Military Academy, where he spent four formative years developing discipline and leadership, graduating with the rank of Lieutenant. During his time there, he excelled in wrestling and weightlifting, igniting a lifelong passion for fitness that would later define his career and legacy.

He went on to attend the University of Georgia, where he earned a business degree and became a lifelong fan of the Georgia Bulldogs. With ambition and courage, Jerry set out for California with little more than a war bond from his parents, ready to begin his journey as an entrepreneur in the health and fitness industry. In 1958, he moved to Michigan, where he opened his own chain of fitness clubs. Alongside his partners, he helped incorporate the International Physical Fitness Association, further cementing his role as a pioneer in the fitness field.

Jerry's life was defined by his relentless pursuit to elevate and improve the fitness industry.His work brought him into contact with many of the industry's most influential figures, and his contributions helped shape what the fitness world has become today. In recognition of his impact, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication and lasting influence.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jerilynn; his sons, Barney of Arizona and Anthony (Andrea) of Michigan; his grandson, Austin; sister, Harriet of Texas; cousin Mimi: and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Maurice, AJ, Shirley, and Miriam; and his first wife, Carol.

Jerry will be remembered for his strength, vision, and unwavering commitment to building a better future-for his family, his community, and the fitness industry he helped transform.

A service to honor his life will be held on Saturday, March 28, at Jardine Funeral Home in Strongsville, Ohio. Visitation will take place from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute in his memory.