I started working for Mr. Kern in 1976 at 19.  I was a long haired kid with no direction. He saw something in me worth believing in. He gave me a chance to better myself. I did. I worked for him as I went to college at night.   If it were not for him I would probably have not graduated. I did. I owe him much but I never gave him credit. I do so now. God bless you Mr. Kern

To the whole Kern Family
I am so sorry to hear about Mr Kern.  You all our in my thoughts and prayers.  Try to always remember the happy memories when you feel sad - as I know there are years and years full of smiles and laughs.

Joe was a wonderful man and will be missed by family and friends.  He was very friendly and always made you feel welcome in his home or anywhere else he might be.  We are praying for his family that the Lord will comfort each one.

Joe was not only a good friend, but like a second father to me .  He was a business mentor and gave me the opportunity to work with him on his home for the past 30 some odd years. He and Barbara gave me much confidence in myself as a person and "contractor". I will miss him and working on The Potomac Mills Hotel very much.

Joe will certainly be missed by many.  Our son, Bill, married Laura, one of Joe and Barbara's granddaughters, giving us not only a great daughter in law but a wonderful extended family. From the start Joe made us feel welcome and part of the Clan. We send our heartfelt condolences to all those who called Joe: husband, Daddy, Poppy, and friend.

Joe had a certain 'wit' that brought people together in laughter. He was a good friend and will be missed. Barbara, our thoughts are with you, much love, Bob & Sidsel Alpert

I enjoyed knowing Mr. Kern over the past 15 years and always valued his  friendship. I looked forward to visiting with him as he was very friendly and always treated everyone with respect and kindness.
Dennis Weiner (Preston Trail Golf Club)

We were lucky enough to live directly across the street from Joe and Barbara for the last two decades.  It is true that Joe never knew a stranger and spread his contagious enthusiasm to all lucky enough to come in contact with him.  We will miss his bright face and infectious happy spirit.  We will hold the family in our prayers throughout this difficult time.  
Claire and Maurice Crowe

I did not have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Kern but I do know his daughter and she is an inspiration to many and I had the pleasure of working with her on some NAMI issues many years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

I remember Mr and Mrs. Kern being some of my favorite parents. I would come to the house to play with Donna as a child and they were always so kind. They were always very sweet with each other as well.
I am sorry for your loss but know, the world was better because Mr. Kern was here and loved by many.

I loved working with Mr. Kern at Rosco. I will always remember his laugh!!

I loved my Dad VERY VERY much. He supported me through thick and thin. The greatest compliment I ever received from anyone is when he told me he was proud of me! And I was always proud of him except when he embarrassed me driving carpool to Ursuline and singing "King of the Road". He plays a good game of golf and gin, but he ain't no Roger Miller.

OBITUARY

Joseph M. Kern

Born MARCH 2, 1928

Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home & Hillcrest Mausoleum & Memorial Park

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Joseph M. Kern

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