William “Bill” Burnham Kern passed into the arms of the Lord early on Sunday, June 8, 2025, knowing he was loved and appreciated, and in the company of his very special granddaughter, Corrie.
Bill was born in Cedar Falls, Iowa on July 24, 1945, the son of William J. Kern and Avonelle Maxine (Larsen Kern) Foutch.
His father gave him his first camera, and he developed a life-long love of photography that gave him many opportunities. He ran a photo lab in Eau Claire, took personal photos (including photos for aspiring models), taught photography at the technical college, took photos of John Deere tractors for their training manuals, and photographed soldiers at Ft. Mc
Coy. Bill was very proud of the many soldiers he helped gain promotions with his photos. He would tie a double-Windsor knot for them and slightly under-develop the film, ensuring that their photos would stand out and look professional.
Bill was proud of his time serving in the Army. He trained at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, but declined the assignment because he didn’t think he could ignore small children walking by. He also spent time working in the basement of The Pentagon, setting up the stage and audio-visual equipment for visiting dignitaries. He was proud of his service and his country.
He did a lot of work with computers, also. Fast Track was his company, providing website design, internet marketing, and computer repair services to many individuals and businesses in the area.
Bill believed in helping people whenever he could; there are countless stories of the people he’s helped or given shelter to. He welcomed stepchildren as his own, frequently stating that there is no difference between “real” and “step”. Bill wanted to make the world a better place, and he took action to do that whenever the opportunity presented itself.
Bill was united in marriage to the love of his life, Christine Marie Warner/Stone, in 1991 at Chris’ family’s home in West Virginia. Christine passed away in 2005. Bill had many fond memories of his life with Chris and loved to share stories of their life together.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Christine Kern, two sons, William and Charles Kern, his parents, and a grandson, A.J. Scriven.
Bill is survived by a sister, Linda Finkle, nephew Todd Kern, and his children, Dan Stone, Steve Stone, Wanda (Marvin) Graaf, and Michelle Kern. He is further survived by grandchildren Corrie Brewer, Tiffany (Nikita) Kessen, Erik Kessen, Monica Ourada, Christine Stone, Tiffany Kern, Sonja Kern, Sydney Kern, and Sarah Pierce. In addition, Bill is survived by great-grandchildren Aysha Hibbler, Khloe Frisk, Logan Garcia, Elijah Schroeder, and Ryder Kessen. He also leaves behind two cats, Tux and Trip.
“I appreciate everything you’re all doing for me. I love you all.” -final words, Bill Kern
A Celebration of Life will be held from 2 to 6 PM on Wednesday, June 25, at Club 16 in Sparta. All are welcome to join the family in celebrating a life well lived.
