Terry Joe Kern, 83, passed away on Oct. 17, 2022, at Clara Barton Hospital, Hoisington, Kan. He was born on July 27, 1939, in Great Bend, Kan., to Leonard and Opal (Shea) Kern. On Oct. 10, 1959, he married Marie Heckens in Great Bend. She survives. 

A lifetime resident of Great Bend, Terry owned Kern Floor Service for 51 years, as well as ran a taxi and delivery service with his brother, Denny. He was a former member of St. Patrick Catholic Church and frequently gave to the Dominican Sisters of Peace. Terry had other passions as well: he was a tech. inspector for the SRCA Dragstrip, operated Great Bend Raceway, remodeled his own properties, worked on racing engines to clear his mind, hosted large card parties with his wife, liked watching NASCAR races, and especially enjoyed watching his grandkids participate in sports and activities.

Survivors include his wife of the home; a son, Pat Kern of Great Bend; two daughters, Loretta (Jim) Murphy and Lisa Mohr of Great Bend; seven grandchildren, Rex (Lacey) Kern, Jared (Shelby) Kern, Taylor Vasquez, Madison Murphy, Dalton Murphy, Kylee Mohr, Slade Mohr; and four great-grandchildren, Trenton, Kale, Jett, and Nova. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Denny Kern; son, Michael Kern; son-in-law, Wes Mohr; and grandson-in-law, Adrian Vasquez.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, at Bryant Funeral Home with Pastor Daniel Vandenburg presiding. Memorials have been designated to the Dominican Sisters of Peace or the SRCA Dragstrip, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Oct. 19, 2022