Katherine "Kathy" L. Kern

HADAR – Funeral service for Katherine "Kathy" Lena Kern, 65, of Hadar, Nebraska, will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Hadar. Rev. Rodney Rixe will be officiating the service. Interment will be at the Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery, Norfolk. Visitation will be held 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday, November 8, 2024 at the Stonacek Funeral Chapel, Norfolk. Kathy passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the Wayne Country View Care Nursing Home in Wayne, Nebraska. Stonacek Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Kathy was born on July 30, 1959, to Fredrick and Phyllis (Sporleder) Kern at the Lutheran Hospital in Norfolk. Kathy grew up with deep roots in her family, faith, and community. She was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Hadar, Nebraska, where she remained an active and dedicated member throughout her life. Kathy attended Immanuel Lutheran Grade School and graduated from Pierce High School in 1978. Known for her warm spirit and a heart as big as her smile, Kathy embarked on a 12-year career with Dale Electronics after high school, but she found her true calling at the Eagle’s Club in Norfolk, where she worked as a beloved bartender for 34 years. In addition to her work, Kathy spent over 30 years as an Avon representative, connecting with her community and forming friendships that spanned generations. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Fredrick and Phyllis Kern; her brother, Fred Kern; and her grandparents. She is survived by her siblings: Barb (Kirby) Marsh of Norfolk, Marj (Jeff) Heppner of Stanton, Sharlene Dvorak of Pierce, and Marlene (friend Marv Mittelstaedt) Kern of Hadar; her sister-in-law Leigha Kern of Norfolk; and a host of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who adored her, including Nate (Bri Hajek) Marsh, Preston (Autumn Campbell) Marsh, Blake (Peyton McCormick) Heppner, Whitney (Adam) Svoboda, Hannah Heppner, Shawn (Stefanie) Dvorak, Shelton (Kortany) Dvorak, Tiff (Gregg) Neesen, and Kody (Jackie) Kern, along with 10 cherished great-nieces and nephews. Kathy’s generous heart touched everyone she met. Though she didn’t have children of her own, she filled the lives of her nieces, nephews, and their children with endless love, warmth, and thoughtful surprises. She became known as the family’s "card lady," never missing a birthday, anniversary, or special occasion. Kathy delighted her loved ones with birthday cards filled with $1 bills for every year celebrated—a tradition her family will always hold close. Outside of her work and family, Kathy enjoyed the camaraderie of friendly competition in shuffleboard, darts, pool, bowling league and golfing as part of the ladies' golf league at Kelly’s Country Club. She brought joy, laughter, and a bit of spirited fun wherever she went. Kathy's kindness, warmth, and selflessness will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her. Condolences may be expressed to the family on-line at www.stonacekfuneralchapel.com.

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Katherine "Kathy" L. Kern

July 30, 1959 - November 2, 2024