Harold "Don" Donald Kern

Harold "Don" Donald Kern was born on August 2, 1934, in Saginaw, Michigan to Harold Kern and Mildred Seidel Kern. He passed away on December 3, 2022, in Rowlett, Texas.

Affectionately regarded as "Don", he grew up in Saginaw with many beloved aunts and uncles nearby. He graduated from high school in 1952 and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1953. He served 20 years as an aircraft mechanic mostly on the B52s, though he was selected to join the B58 program in which served there for several years. He was stationed at several bases in the States, as well as France, Thailand, and Africa.

When Don retired from the United States Air Force in 1973, the family moved to Dallas, Texas. Don began working for Coffee Systems of Dallas and remained there for over 20 years, finally retiring for good in 2002. After retiring, Don spent many happy hours working in the big yard and attending his grandchildren's ball games and concerts.

Don was a member of Northminster Presbyterian Church for 25 years. When Northminster merged with Lake Highlands Presbyterian Church, he remained a member until his transition. He was first elected deacon and later was ordained as an Elder. Don was always very active in church; he worked with building and grounds maintenance. He also attended Sunday School and served as an usher. Don delivered Meals on Wheels with his wife, Joni, and served wherever there was a need.

Don and Joni had over half a century of a happy life – moving from state to state, traveling to fun destinations, cruising with family, and visiting Hawaii with best friends. At home, life was just as much fun, but with different activities such as board games, card games, trips with kids, fixing cars in the driveway with Lynn, and watching the grandchildren playing ball or participating in concerts or plays.

Among many hobbies, Don enjoyed going to visit Joni’s parents on their farm. He loved helping his father-in-law, Ronald, and baling alfalfa was his all-time favorite. He will be fondly remembered as a sweet, soft-spoken man who loved his family and friends - both new and old - and was greatly loved in return. His loving spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Kern and Mildred Seidel Kern; brother, Charles Kern; granddaughter, Rachel Denny; grandson, Shane Pledger; and father and mother-in-law, Ronald and Jennie Johnston.

Those left to cherish precious memories include his wife of 53 years, Helen Joni Kern; five children: Debra (John) Krosky, Sharri Evenson, Kerry (Jenell) Weekes, Pamela (Michael) Pledger, and Lisa Wasson; sister, Laura (Ron) Maurer; 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; a great-great-granddaughter; and a host of other relatives and friends. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Lake Highlands Presbyterian Church by clicking the link below or to your favorite charity.