The world lost a beloved member on March 30, 2023, when Jean Kern, a resident of Plankinton, South Dakota, passed away on his 96th birthday. The celebration of life service will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Plankinton on April 29, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. All are welcomed to attend.

Born in 1927 to Irene, Jean was raised with strong Midwestern values, which guided his life and career throughout his many years. Jean's commitment to hard work, honesty, and community service were instilled in him from a young age, and he carried those values throughout his life.

In his youth, Jean answered the call to serve his country by joining the Army. He was deployed overseas and there, he displayed his exceptional work ethic and leadership skills, earning numerous commendations for his service in the military.

After returning home from his time in the Army, Jean married the love of his life Hazel, and together, they started a family. Jean settled in Plankinton and worked tirelessly as a farmer and rancher among many other jobs. Jean took great pride in his work, and his passion for his friends and family never waned throughout his life.

Aside from his work, Jean was an active member of his community, always quick to lend a hand to those in need. He was a true pillar of his community and was beloved by all who knew him for his warmth, kindness, and unwavering sense of humor.

Over the years, Jean and his wife Hazel were blessed with three children, Kendra, Daniel (with spouse Nancy), and Gary (with spouse Becky). Jean adored his children and always supported them in all their endeavors, offering guidance and encouragement every step of the way.

In his later years, Jean was overjoyed to welcome thirteen grandchildren (Melinda Brunsen with husband Matt, Beth Meidinger with husband Doug, Robert Will,  James Will with wife Ashley, Adam, Nicholas, Christian, Trevor, Michelle, Michael, Jacob, Faith and Emily) into his life and nine great grandchildren (Katie Wesdorp with Husband James, Corbin, Cassidy, Christian, Tara, Erik, Peyton, Hazel and Ashton. He was delighted to watch them grow and thrive and relished in their company always. Jean and Hazel also welcomed into our family Dean (deceased), Alvin (deceased) and Joe.

The world is a little dimmer without Jean's light shining in it. But his legacy of hard work, kindness, and community service will continue to inspire and uplift all those who were blessed enough to know him.

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in me will have life even if he dies, and he who lives and believes in me will never die.: John 11:25-26