Francis “Henry” Kern passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at his home in Palco, at the age of 82. He was born in Graham County, Kansas to Norbert and Edna (Reese) Kern. Henry grew up in Palco and graduated from Palco High School with the class of 1954. He continued his education at Fort Hays State College and graduated in 1959. 

Henry’s family owned the local grocery store where Henry worked, and in 1966 he and his brother Robert bought out their mother’s share in the business. Henry was a part of the National Guard and was also involved in organizations such as the Plainville Knights of Columbus and Lion’s Club for over 50 years. He was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Damar and attended on a regular basis. Henry really enjoyed his family. He loved to spend time with his nieces and nephews, and grew a very strong bond with his nephew Robert Jr. 

Henry is survived by his brother Robert Kern, Sr. and wife Patricia of Palco; half-sister Clarice Mills of Pampa, TX; and nieces and nephews, Janette, Geraldine, Connie, Darlene, Claude, and Ronnie Desair, Pat, Mike, Debbie, Robert Jr., Paul, and David Kern. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norbert and Edna Kern; and half-sister Fern Desair. 

Henry was a hardworking, loving, and dedicated family man. He served with a giving heart and loved with an even greater heart. Although he will be greatly missed, his life, his love, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. 

A Mass of Christian Burial is planned for Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 10:00 A.M., at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Damar. Interment will follow in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Plainville. Visitation will be held Thursday at 9:30 A.M. until service time at the church. The family suggests memorials to the St. Joseph Catholic Church and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd Street, Plainville, Kansas 67663.