Lawrence "Michael" Kern

Lawrence Michael “Mike” Kern, 78 of Rapid City, died July 24, 2024 in hospice after a brief illness. He was born August 15, 1945 in Detroit, the son of Frank and Ethel (Rutledge) Kern.

Mike proudly served in the United States Air Force and was a dedicated letter carrier of the U.S. Postal Service for 37 years before retiring. He was a member and steward of the N.A.L.C Union for 50 years. Mike was a fun loving, card playing, crossword solving, western watching, trivia buff and music enthusiast. He also enjoyed; reading mystery novels by James Patterson and Stephen King and playing Euchre, Cribbage, Tripoley and Trivial Pursuit. He loved being on the water in his pontoon boat, riding his motorcycle and hunting. He donated monthly to charities who assisted his fellow veterans, such as Disabled veterans and AMVETS.

Surviving is his loving wife Barbara of 34 years and their blended family of 6 children; Laurie Kern of Shelby Twp., MI, Jennifer (Brian) Luisier of Morgantown, WV, Angela (Joseph) Cangemi of Shelby Twp., MI, Jessica Tarnowski of Sunrise, FL, Mandi Tarnowski of Warren, MI, Sean Kern, mother-in-law Mildred “Ma” Chilson, brother Francis “Frank” (Carole) Kern of Sterling Heights, MI, 7 grandsons, many great grandchildren, and nephew Jeff Troszak.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Sharon (Denis) Troszak.

In memory of Mike, please consider donating towards a veteran charity of your choice.

Arrangements are in the care of the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.