Robert C. Kern

Robert “Bob” Charles Kern Sr., age 95, of Whispering Pines passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026 at First Health Hospice House of Westend, NC. He was born October 24, 1930 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania the son of the late Francis G. Kern and Maria Wick Kern. He is also preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Maria “Theresa” Rein Kern; and a brother, Francis J. Kern.

Bob lived a life marked by selflessness, generosity, and love. He honorably served his country in the United States Naval Reserves, spending time aboard numerous naval vessels. He began a lifelong career in the insurance industry, where he spent years as an agent helping others prepare for life’s events until his retirement. His work was not just a job but a vocation through which he extended care and security to countless families. A man of devout faith, Bob was devoted to Christian principles, demonstrating generosity, kindness, and compassion in all aspects of his life. His selfless heart and gentle nature made him a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Those who knew Bob were touched by his wisdom and guidance, and his presence was a source of comfort and joy. He attended St. Anthony’s of Padua of Southern Pines, NC and St. Joseph’s in Rileyville, PA and was active in the Knights of Columbus. Bob had a profound love for nature, particularly expressed through his passion for plants and gardening. He found peace and beauty in growing orchids and was actively involved with the Whispering Pines Garden Club. Fishing provided him with another form of tranquility, where he could connect with nature and find solace. His creativity shone through in the stained-glass pieces he lovingly crafted for all to enjoy. Above all, Bob’s greatest joy was his family. He was a dedicated and devoted family man, and his children were not only his pride but also some of his most treasured friends. His legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. Bob’s life was a testament to the power of faith, the importance of service, and the enduring strength of the bonds fostered throughout his life. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 33 years, Patricia McBride Scheideler-Kern; children, Maria “Terry” Kondyra, Eileen Stradley (Doug), Robert C. Kern Jr. (Mary), Rosemary Van Skoyk (Dan), Caroline Templeton, and Virginia Kern; step children, Peter Scheideler (Mary Ellen), Louis Scheideler (Christine), Mary Pat Schneider (Stephen), and Jill Nugent (John); grandchildren, Tara, Jeremy, Jenifer, Laura, Billy, Amanda, Nicholas, Lindsey, Jacinda, and Jeremiah; step grandchildren, Jennifer, William, Stephen, Louis, Allyson, Laura, Maggie, Christopher, Sean, Alyssa and Jake; great grandchildren, John, Brian, Kyle, Chase, Liam, Nicholas, Kayla, Cam, Eliana, Naomi, Ambrose, Bradley, Brynna, Cooper, Aubrey, and Tyler; step great-grandchildren, Sienna, Mia, Ella, Jett, Lainey, Elena, Nora, and Stephen; two great great-grandchildren, Chloe and Dani; and numerous other beloved family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 16th at St. Joseph’s Church in Rileyville at 10 am. Inurnment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Local arrangements by Hessling Murray Funeral Home, 428 Main St. Honesdale.