William “Bill” Kern

William J. “Bill” Kern age 91 a lifelong resident of Euclid, passed away May 17, 2017, at his home.

Bill was born in Euclid and attended Euclid High School before enlisting in the Navy at the age of 17. He was a radar specialist on the U.S.S Craven in the South Pacific during W.W. II. Once he completed his service to his country, Bill finished his education at Collinwood High School. Bill then began his career as a land surveyor. He worked for Pioneer Construction Company and various other construction companies in Cleveland.

Bill loved dancing with his wife to polkas and made that a weekly routine. He also enjoyed constructing picture puzzles, golfing, reading, and watching sporting events. Bill’s family described him as a humble loving man who was generous, witty, with a great sense of humor. He had such a positive outlook on life. Bill was the rock of his family and a hero who gave his children and grandchildren inspiration.

Bill is survived by his children Carolann Harkey (husband Mark), William (wife Annie) and Mary Nykiel (husband John); grandchildren Kristen and Laura Harkey, Kelly and Rachel Kern, Michele and Janeene Bensi, Johnny and Kathleen Nykiel; nieces, nephews and friend to many.

Bill is preceded in death by his wife of 64 years Emily B. (nee Furlan) Kern who passed away in 2010; parents Frank and Francis (nee Zitnik) Kern; and siblings Francis Homovec, Josephine Trunk, Joseph Grilc, Hedwig “Pat” Jansa, Frank and Veronica Kern.

Mass of Christian Burial Monday, May 22, 2017 at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church at 10:30 AM. Burial following with Military Honors at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Bill at THE ZEVNIK-COSIC FUNERAL HOME 28890 CHARDON RD., WILLOUGHBY HILLS (BETWEEN BISHOP RD AND RT. 91) SUNDAY 3-6 PM. Contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to Diabetes Partnership of Cleveland 3601 S. Green Rd. Ste. 100 Cleveland, OH 44122.