Francis Kern, Sr

Francis (Frank) Joseph Kern Sr., age 89, passed away Feb. 5, 2012 at his winter home in Palm Springs, CA. He was born in Detroit and graduated with honors from Catholic Central H.S. where he was also captain of the football team. He graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.S. and Masters in Education and played Center on the football team in 1942-43. He served in the V12 Unit of the Marine Corp. and went on to coach championship high school football at Croswell, Michigan. He spent the remainder of his career teaching physical education in the Detroit Public School System. Upon his retirement he enjoyed sailing the Great Lakes on his 34' Tartan sailboat, golfing and enjoying his homes in Michigan and Palm Springs. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Beverly, and will be sadly missed by his children, Julie Fielek, Nancy Kern, Frank J. Kern, Jr. and George Kern. He also leaves behind sisters Theresa Crinnion and Mary Lou Hyde, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He often said he had a wonderful life and had no regrets. Funeral services will be Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery with military honors, Pastor Mark McCool will officiate. The Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes is handling the arrangements.