Robert "Bob" Kern

Robert “Bob” Kern, age 89 of Albion, Iowa and Oakland, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 at Bickford Senior Living under the care of Iowa River Hospice.

Robert Eugene Kern was born on October 27, 1936, on the family farm in Spooner, Wisconsin, the son of Lloyd William and Evelyn (Jay) Kern. He graduated from Albion High School in 1955 and continued his education at Oklahoma City University for a year.

On March 10, 1957, Bob was united in marriage with Louise Farland in Albion. Louise passed away on February 6, 2005.

Bob was later united in marriage with Janet (Wilkening) Meininger on December 22, 2009 in Albion.

Bob worked as a machinist at Fisher Controls for 34 years until his retirement. Following retirement, Bob and Janet spent six months of the year at their home in Oakland, AR for the last 13 years.

Bob was an avid golfer and racquetball player. He enjoyed carpentry work for over 50 years, mowing his yard and watching his favorite TV shows, In the Heat of the Night and Blue Bloods, along with others.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Janet; children: Mark Kern of Arkansas and Brad (Lori) Kern of Albion; grandchildren: Michael (Megan) Kern, Hannah (Chandler) Trautwein, John R Kern (Leanne Paustian), and Rachel (Wade) Wolken; and great grandchildren: Kane, Holland, and Clara.

In death, he rejoins his first wife, Louise; his parents, Lloyd and Evelyn Kern; infant sister, Marie Kern; sister, Carol Sue Clark; brother, Lloyd “Junior” Kern; and daughter-in-law, Bridget Kern.

Bob’s family would like to share their gratitude to the Bickford Family for their love and care for Bob and Janet over the last year.

Per Bob’s wishes, cremation rites will take place. Private family services will be held at a later date. He will be laid to rest in the Albion Cemetery.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Bob and his family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.