Richard D. Kern

Richard Kern, 88, of Palmyra, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at home with family by his side. He was born May 23, 1937 in a small home just outside of Richland, PA to the late Charles F. and Elizabeth A. (Schneck) Kern. He had two older sisters and one brother. Being the youngest, he always knew he was loved. He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Ann (Brown) whom he married June of 1963 and had two children with.

In 1940 he moved to Lebanon, PA and after attending the Lebanon public schools, graduated from Lebanon High School in 1955. After graduation he enlisted and served 4 years in the US Air Force. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Airman First Class, and after being employed at Met-Ed for 30 years he retired as a Lineman First Class. As you can see Richard always traveled “First Class”.

Church is a very important part of Richard’s life and he most recently attended Palm Lutheran Church, Palmyra. He was also Past Master for Spring Creek Lodge #802 and Harrisburg Consistory.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Nancy Elizabeth Kern and husband Thomas Hickey who was born in 1965 and Steven Richard in 1968 and wife Trudy; grandchildren, Michael T. Kern, Megan Elizabeth Rose Kern, Jacob S. Kern, Samuel R. Kern, and Gabriel C. Kern; and sister, Elaine Brandt. He is predeceased by his siblings, Marie Fessler, Charles and Donald Kern.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 11 AM at Palm Lutheran Church, 11 W. Cherry St., Palmyra, PA 17078 with Reverend Carl Rabbe officiating. A time of visitation will be held from 10 AM until the start of the service. Burial will follow at Grand View Memorial Park, Annville, with full military honors. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in his memory to his church, Palm Lutheran or the Lebanon Humane Society www.LebanonHumane.org