Darlene Lucille Kern and Donald Francis Kern

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Darlene Lucille Kern and Donald Francis Kern died two hours apart at Bishop Drumm Care Center, in Johnston, Iowa. They were married for 74 years. Darlene died at age 94, with her husband at her side. Don was 99.

Darlene was born in Washington, Iowa, on Feb. 12, 1926, to Bertha (Welliever) Young and Harold William Young. She attended Washington Public Schools and graduated from Washington High School in 1944. She worked as a sales associate at McClellen’s Department Store, in Washington, during her high school years and after graduation.

Don was born in Iowa City, Iowa, on Sept.17, 1920, to Helen Elizabeth (Saur) Kern and Anthony William Kern. The family moved to Richmond, Iowa, when Don was 3 years old. He attended Holy Trinity Catholic School and graduated from Kalona High School in 1938. Don served in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1942-1945. After specialized training in the U.S., he was stationed in Norwich, England, as a B17 bomber mechanic. Upon his return, he and his brother, Cletus, worked their parents’ farm in Richmond.

Don and Darlene married in 1946; they had three children: Deanna, Douglas, and Debra. In 1952 the Kerns moved to their farm in Wellman, Iowa, where, in 1958, they also purchased a John Deere Implement dealership. The family moved to Indianola, Iowa, in 1962, where Don owned and operated Don Kern Implement and Darlene served as bookkeeper.

Don later assumed management of Geneser Implement. After his retirement, in 1972, Don spent countless hours working on their farm near Indianola. Don was an avid fisherman, reader, and lover of travel. He was known for his lively sense of humor.

Darlene earned certification in school food service management from Iowa State University. For 12 years, she worked in food service for the Indianola Public Schools and became cafeteria manager and head cook at Indianola Middle School. She was a member of Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and was an avid cook, gardener, and bridge player. She was known for her love of children.

The couple traveled throughout the United States and to other countries, including China. They spent many winters in Arizona. Since 2016, Don and Darlene had made their home at Bishop Drumm Retirement Center. Both will be remembered for their devotion to family and their welcoming home.

Darlene was predeceased by her parents and her brothers: Richard Young and Max Young.  She is survived by sister: Margie (Frank) Thompson and sister-in-law: Beverly Young. Don was predeceased by his parents; brother: Cletus; sisters: Vivian Grady, Arlene Marr, and Carolyn Weitzell and their spouses; brothers-in-law: Paul Young and Ted Onstot; and nephew: Timothy Charles Grady.  He is survived by his sisters: Rita Young and Donna Onstot.

Darlene and Don are also survived by daughter: Deanna (Gary) Ludwin of Fort Collins, Colo.; son: Douglas (Beverly) of Johnston; daughter: Debra Kern, of Johnston; grandchildren Mark (Laura), Ludwin David (Katie) Ludwin, David Kern (Allison Esser), Brian Steckelberg (Dawn Hagen), and Janelle (Brian) Herrmann; great-grandchildren: Cole, Grant, Iris, and Thomas Ludwin, and Matthew and Zachary Herrmann; 24 beloved nieces and nephews; and many special friends and neighbors.

The family wishes to thank the Veterans Administration health professionals; Wesley Life and Suncrest Hospice Care; the dedicated staff at Bishop Drumm Care Center; and Samantha, Mirsada, and Thuong, at Martina Place, for their compassionate care. 

Darlene and Don will be interred at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery at a later date. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.iowafuneralplanning.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Indianola Public Library, 207 North B St., Indianola, IA 50125 or the food bank at Helping Hands of Warren County, 109 East Clinton, Indianola, IA 50125.