Obituary of Robert J. Kern

Robert J. “Bear” Kern, 73, of Iowa City, went to be with our Lord Jesus Christ, Saturday, December 19, 2009, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at Holy Trinity Church in Richmond, Iowa. A time of visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Iowa City Hospice. Online condolences may be sent through the web @www.gayandciha.com Robert was born November 28, 1936, to Virginia Kern. He was raised and adopted by his grandparents, Joseph and Celeste Kern, on their farm near Richmond. In 1955 he graduated from Kalona High school and began work for various area farmers. Robert also worked for several years at the Iowa City Animal Shelter. One of his life-long passions was crappie fishing. Robert’s family includes his brothers; William (Deborah) Heitzman, of Iowa City and Richard (Becky) Heitzman of Hills, as well as many nieces and nephews. He will be missed dearly by his Fiancé; Feleena Hopewell, and best friend; Larry Strabala, as well his “little friends,” William, Danielle, and Cheyenne. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, brother; Tom Heitzman and sister; Marge Hamilton. Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City is caring for Robert’s family and his services.