Robert N. Kern

Robert N. Kern, age 100, of South Holland, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 28, 2023. Loving husband of the late Virginia L. Kern. Devoted father of Robert (Sheryl) S. Kern and Nancy L. Ward. Cherished grandfather of Samantha, Danica, Payton, Andrew, and Matthew; great grandfather of Aria, Sawyer, and Athena. Dear brother of the late Olga, Norma, Charles, Paul, and Elliot. Preceded in death by his parents Charles and Louise Kern. Robert was a proud U.S. Army WWII veteran and purple heart recipient (1943-1946). Closely involved in the Church of Christ, he regularly sought ways to help those less fortunate. Robert had a profound love for food and enjoyed multiple different cuisines including creole, Italian, seafood, and southwestern dishes. Having followed the Cubs religiously over his life, he was fortunate to see the Cubs finally win the World Series in 2016, some 108 years since their last World Series triumph. He was loved by many and will be dearly missed. Inurnment Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery – Elwood, IL. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation (www.macular.org) Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home - Dyer, IN. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com