Thomas Fredrick Kern

1932 - 2025

Thomas Fredrick Kern

February 2, 1932 - November 7, 2025

Thomas Fredrick Kern, 93, of Richmond, Va., known affectionately as "Tom," passed away peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025. Born on February 2, 1932, in Waterbury, Conn., Tom lived a full and accomplished life defined by hard work, dedication and a deep love for family and the outdoors.

Tom attended Mount Saint Mary's University and was a graduate of University of Maryland Dental School. In exchange for his dental school education, Tom served in the US Army. He went to boot camp at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. After completing boot camp he was transferred to Fort Benning, Ga., where he met the love of his life and married Macrina nine months later. Together they were transferred to Menwith Hill Army Base in Harrogate, England, where they lived for four years. He eventually retired as a captain from the US Army after serving six years and attended Georgetown University, where he earned his degree in Orthodontics and then practiced orthodontics in Fairfax and Warrenton, Va. Tom devoted his career to helping others smile with confidence. His work reflected his lifelong values of hard work, determination and integrity, qualities that shaped every facet of his career.

Tom shared 67 wonderful years with his wife, Macrina C. Kern. Together they raised four children: Tom Kern, Jr (Carol), David Kern (Karen), Bill Kern (Bryan), Crina Bjornstad (Richard), and nine grandchildren, Trey Kern, Whit Kern (Charlotte), Mary Kern, Analiese Kern, Brit Kern, Will Kern, Jane Kern, Kirstin Bjornstad, Ryan Bjornstad (Tori) and one great-grandchild, Margaret Kern.

In his retirement years, Tom enjoyed traveling with Macrina and cherished the many adventures they shared together. Tom was an avid outdoorsman and photographer. He loved hunting and fishing so much that after retiring he took a part time job at TW's Bait & Tackle Shop in Kitty Hawk, NC. He also was a gardening enthusiast and became a Master Gardner. His association with the Master Gardner program was instrumental in developing his love of roses. Tom was a member of the Richmond Rose Society whose motto was "helping Richmonders grow better roses". He was involved in the annual Richmond Rose Society Show as both a participant and a judge. His enjoyment of working with roses led him to volunteer in his community and work at Strange's Florist and Garden Center.

Tom will be remembered for his humor, and the love he shared with family. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. A private celebration of life will be held at a future date.

The family is appreciative of the love and care he received at Hermitage Deep Run retirement community.