Cover photo for James "Jim" Francis Kernen's Obituary
James "Jim" Francis Kernen Profile Photo
1951 James "Jim" 2024

James "Jim" Francis Kernen

July 24, 1951 — December 8, 2024

James "Jim" Francis Kernen, born on July 24, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, to Robert and Beatrice Kernen, passed away suddenly on December 8, while working. Jim grew up in Dearborn, Michigan, where his parents owned a local gas station, instilling in him a strong work ethic and a love for connecting with people.

Jim was known for his friendly nature and his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone at any time. He had a deep passion for classic cars, delighting in the revving of engines and the beauty of vintage automobiles. A self-proclaimed neat freak, Jim took great pride in maintaining a clean and organized environment, both at home and in his surroundings.

A loyal Detroit Tigers fan, Jim enjoyed spending time watching games and cheering on his favorite team. He was also an avid fan of the TV show Cops and found humor and intrigue in reading the comment sections on YouTube, where the unexpected always seemed to unfold.

Above all, Jim was a devoted grandfather who cherished his grandchildren, Jayden, Olivia, Mila, and Noah. He found immense joy in spoiling them and creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter. His family will forever remember his unwavering dedication and the warmth of his heart.

Jim is survived by his loving daughters, Renee (Jon) Guastella and Lauren Kernen; his cherished grandchildren, Jayden, Olivia, Mila, and Noah; and his dear siblings, Tom (Patti) Kernen and Janis Redinger. He was predeceased by his brothers Dick (the late Charlene) Kernen, Pat (Barb) Kernen, and John (Karen) Kernen. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Family and friends are invited to honor Jim’s life during visitation on Friday from 3:00 to 8:00 PM, with a Time of Remembrance at 6:30 PM, at Stanley Turowski Funeral Home, 25509 W. Warren, Dearborn Heights. Jim will lie instate on Saturday at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, 47650 N. Territorial Road, Plymouth, until the Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to a 529 higher education savings plan to benefit Jayden Charles Kernen , Jim's grandson.  A physical check can be made out to ‘Fidelity Investments FBO Jayden Kernen’ and check donors will need to put on the memo line ‘603685374’

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James "Jim" Francis Kernen, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Friday, December 13, 2024

3:00 - 8:00 pm

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Time of Remembrance

Friday, December 13, 2024

Starts at 6:30 pm

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Instate

Saturday, December 14, 2024

10:00 - 10:30 am

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Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church

47650 North Territorial Road, Plymouth, MI 48170

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Funeral Mass

Saturday, December 14, 2024

Starts at 10:30 am

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Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church

47650 North Territorial Road, Plymouth, MI 48170

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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