James H. Kerns

James H. Kerns, beloved husband of Gretchen, nee Dittmer, of 70 years; loving father of James (Kathleen), Shawn (Maureen), and Kevin (Cary); devoted grandfather of Colleen, Meghan
(Brock) Janikowski, Hillary, Kristine (Thomas) Norton, Shawn Jr., James II, and Erin; brother in law of Virginia Kerns; loved by numerous nieces and nephews.

Born July 7, 1921 in Mitchell, S.D., the son of Stephen I. and Ethel (Hoadley) Kerns. Veteran of World War II, served in the U.S. Army as an engineer in North Africa and India. Graduated from the University of Wisconsin, with studies in Engineering, Business and Law. Brilliant, creative, with a wonderful sense of humor, he loved people and jazz. Started his first business with his father and brothers and built multiple successful businesses over the course of his lifetime.

Visitation will be held at the Leonard Memorial Funeral Home, 565 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, Thursday, September 17 from 4-7 PM (www.leonardmemorialhome.com). A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 18  at St. James the Apostle Catholic Church, Interment Saturday September 19 at Calvary Cemetery, Hwy. 20, Rockford, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Catholic Charities www.catholiccharities.net or Myasthenia Gravis Foundation www.myasthenia.org

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