Richard "Rick" Kern

Richard "Rick" Kern, 71, a beloved member of the Toledo community, passed away unexpectedly on August 4, 2024 at Flower Memorial Hospital. He was born on November 5, 1952 to Donald P. Kern and Jean (Neidermaier) Kern, and leaves behind a legacy of kindness and that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Rick will be remembered for his warm smile, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and his unwavering love for his family and friends. His presence brought light into the lives of those around him, and his passing created a void that can never be filled. He always had a story, joke or memory that was constantly shared.  Rick loved to read books, work on his classic Pontiac Firebird, and collect signs or items from his younger years.  Every single endeavor was one with passion, whether it was business or pleasure. His humor could make even a challenging day lighten up for his family and friends.    

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Sandra, who stood by his side through thick and thin, they were the light of each others lives. Together they built a life full of beautiful memories and shared moments that will be treasured forever. Rick was also a devoted father to his son, Cortney and daughter-in-law, Rachel Kern. He instilled in him values of integrity and perseverance, shaping him into the remarkable individual that he is today. Sisters; Jane (John) Fast, and Sue Hemsoth Hughes; brothers-in-law:  Jeff (Marianne) Hauden, Jim Hauden; cousins: Dave (Marcia) Hostetter, Mike (Vicki) Hostetter, Pam (David) Dargan Hostetter; along with several nieces, nephews, extended family and close friends.  

Rick's impact extended far beyond his immediate family. His friends remember him as a pillar of strength, always ready with a joke or a listening ear. His colleagues admire him for his professionalism and dedication to his work. Rick worked diligently to stay in touch with friends and nurtured those relationships.  He was the glue that kept groups in contact with each other throughout the years.  The community mourns the loss of a true gentleman whose presence brightened every room he entered.

Services to honor Rick's life will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home; 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, OH  43614 (419-381-1900) at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday,  August 13, 2024. Family will be receiving friends from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. also on Tuesday. The Graveside Service will be held at Fort Meigs Union Cemetery in Perrysburg following the chapel services.

In our hearts, Rick will forever live on – a beacon of love and light. May he rest in peace knowing he was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. Our memories of him will bring us comfort in the days ahead as we celebrate the beautiful life he lived. Although his life seems to brief for us, his family and friends, for Rick, it was a perpetual adventure!  

In lieu of flowers, friends are welcome to send donations to one of Rick's beloved charities, The Toledo Police Museum located at  2201 Kenwood Blvd., Toledo, OH 43606.