James Kern

James Kern, age 67, of Erie, passed away at St. Vincent Hospital on Wednesday March 8, 2023 surrounded by his family. Born in Erie, PA on July 25, 1955, he was the son of the late James Kern and Ruth (Laudensack) Jones.

Jim was a 1973 graduate of Cathedral Prep and went on to have a 44 year career at Kaiser Aluminum / Accuride. Jim or as he was affectionately known to his family and friends as “Dr. Rock” was a lover and advocate of all thing’s music. Over the years he built an impressive collection of albums and CD’s which he took great joy in listening to from start to finish and cataloging every single one. He loved going to concerts, blues music cruises and festivals and was a regular at events like 8 Great Tuesdays and Zabawa. Jim loved being outdoors at Presque Isle and spending time with his 5 grandchildren and many friends while drinking coffee and having great conversation.

Besides his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his late wife, Marlene (Gorniak) Kern, his two twin daughters Ann and Mary Kern, his in-laws Walter and Delphine Gorniak and his brother-in-law Paul Gorniak.

He is survived by his children, Michael J Kern, of Sewickley, PA, and Kelly Portenier, husband Jake, of Cranberry Twp, PA ; five grandchildren, Brooke, Ben and Taylor Kern and Emily and Evelyn Portenier; two sisters Patricia Kern and Diane Kern of Erie; his special friend Donna Hoydic as well as many other relatives and friends.

Friends may call at the Carl A. Slomski & Son Funeral Home Inc. 2101 Ash St. on Sunday March 12, from 4PM to 7PM and may attend a service there Monday at 10AM.

Private burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers  memorials may be made to the Emmaus Soup Kitchen 218 East 11th St. Erie, PA 16503.

Please send condolences to www.slomskifuneralhome.com

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