Thomas A Kern

THOMAS A. KERN (Tom), age 83, beloved husband of Nancy (nee Lape) for 56 years; loving father of Tom, John (Kate), and Bill (Nicole); cherished grandfather of T.J., Lindsay, Colin, Kaitlyn, and Andrew; loving brother of Rich (Sharon), Marianne Simon (Declan Simon - deceased) (Tom Adams), and Ed (Ellen), and brother-in-law of Bill Lape (Lisa). He was the proud uncle of 19 nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary, and brothers, James (Pat - deceased), Don (Dianna - deceased), Jack (Betty), Bill (Lori), and Mike (Cheryl). Tom was a proud alumnus of Fenn College (now Cleveland State University) and served in the United States Army Reserves from '65 - '69. Fixtures at State Road Park in Parma, Tom and his brothers enjoyed playing softball for many years (and being coached by their dad). An avid Cleveland sports fan, Tom had the privilege of attending the Cleveland Browns’ NFL Championship victory in 1964. He and his two oldest sons were also in attendance to witness the perfect game pitched by the Cleveland Indians’ Lenny Barker in 1981. His favorite pastime was watching his three sons compete in soccer, football, basketball, and baseball. Tom enjoyed a distinguished 30-year career as a partner at accounting firm, Ernst & Young. Following retirement, he and Nancy traveled the Northeast U.S. following their youngest son's college basketball career at Colgate University. Tom enjoyed reading, thrifting, and attending garage sales looking for “diamonds in the rough”. In 2010, he and Nancy purchased a cottage in Catawba, and enjoyed spending time at the lake with their kids, grandkids, extended family and friends over the past 15+ years. During his later years, Tom could always be found at the field or in the gym watching his grandkids play youth, Middle School, and High School sports. Tom loved being with his family and showed his love by helping others. His kind heart, helpful hands, and welcoming home were always open to family and friends. He lived a life where actions spoke louder than words. Those of us who were fortunate enough to experience Tom’s presence are truly blessed. His beautiful spirit continues to live on in our hearts, and we are inspired to honor his memory by carrying forward his legacy of love, strength, and hope. Friends may visit at LATEK & RYBICKI FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 7906 BROADVIEW RD. 44147, where calling hours will be held Monday, March 2, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at ST. BASIL THE GREAT CATHOLIC CHURCH, 8700 BRECKSVILLE RD. 44141 on Tuesday, March 3, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at ALL SAINTS CEMETERY, 480 W HIGHLAND RD, NORTHFIELD, OH 44067. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Tom’s memory to The Michael J. Fox Foundation to support new research toward a cure for Parkinson’s disease.