Emery Kernich

Emery Kernich, of Philadelphia and a Scranton native, passed away Monday at Nazareth Hospital after an illness. He was 75 years old. On Sept. 29, 1984, he married his best friend and loving wife, Ann (Haduck) Kernich, formerly of Duryea, Pa.

Born in Taylor on Sept. 20, 1948, and son of the late John Jr. and Ann (Valosky) Kernich, Emery was a graduate of West Scranton High School. A graduate of beauty school, Emery briefly worked as a hairdresser before changing course and going to Washington, D.C. to learn how to be a DJ working as a disc jockey, for local radio stations WEJL and WPTS (formerly in Duryea).

The majority of his career involved transportation. After working for Lackawanna County Transit, he transitioned from local transit to over the road driving was eventually named general manager for Martz Trailways located in Philadelphia, Pa. He would move to Philadelphia before spending seven years in Orlando, Florida, before returning back to Philadelphia. He would ultimately work for Motor Coach Industries, a job that took Emery throughout the 48 continguous states and Canada driving motorcoaches.

Between being a self-taught musician and learning guitar from his Uncle Michael Kernich in his youth, Emery forever loved his music. He was a bass guitarist for many years in several bands, including "the Late Show," a staple throughout Pocono Mountain resorts. He also loved his cars and was a proud longtime motorcyclist.

Emery will be remembered in so many ways, but none more than for his big heart, compassion, sense of humor and love for his family. He was the ultimate storyteller who always had the perfect words for any one in any situation. Now at peace, he will never be forgotten.

Along with Ann, he is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Hallman and husband, Keith, of Telford; two grandchildren, Emma and Jacob Hallman; four siblings, John "Jack" Kernich and wife, Eleanor, of Scranton; Ann Marie Rowlands, of S.C.; Ronald Kernich and wife, Mary Ellen, of Old Forge; and Joseph Kernich and wife, Kelly, of Florida; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

A blessing service will be Saturday at noon at the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge, by the Rev. Paul McDonnell. Private burial, Cathedral Cemetery. Family and friends may pay their respects at the funeral home Saturday from 10 a.m. until services.

Memorial contributions may be made in Emery's name to the VITAS Hospice and Palliative Care, c/o 2601 Holme Ave., Second Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19152. Visit the funeral home's website for directions or to leave a condolence.