Ronald L. Kern, born June 5, 1953, passed away at the age of 62 at IU Health University Hospital on April 28, 2016, after a long battle with lung disease. He was preceded in death by: Parents Robert Oscar Kern and Mary Elizabeth (Gowin) Kern. He is survived by his wife, Natalia; step-son, Alex; his brothers, Donald and Michael; and sisters in law, Sharon and Joyce.
Ronald worked for IBM Corporation for over 30 years. He was very passionate about everything he was involved in, including fishing, photography, woodworking, carving, flute making and playing, and native American culture. Ronald was a member of Indianapolis Circle City Carvers Club.
A Lakota Proverb states “Creation is Continuous” Today we are here to remember that Ron’s creation, continues on. It continues on in those of you here today, it continues on in me, and in Ron’s legacy.
Ron Kern‘s personality and spirit drew many to him. While his spirit appeared to be bigger than life, he made all of us feel that within this huge world, there was a universal spiritual connectedness and we could take solace that in this huge existence, we all matter. Our life is connected to someone else’s life. Often Ron was the conduit of these connections. For me I, found that there were common elements to our shared passions, to name a few: our energy work, Deeksha blessings, cherishing wolves and wildlife, wood carving, enchantingly playing flute , and learning spiritual ways of Lakota. Ron’s pure sensitivity to spiritual connections, both seen and unseen, brought him into an awakening that few others will ever know. This sense of purity expanded into the healing and nurturing he gave so unconditionally to so many of us. This is not to say that giving abundantly did not sometimes take its toll; but sharing and caring for each other helped those around him to remember it is what you do with what you have that is important. His giving inspired all of us to give of ourselves as well, and there the circle shall continue on its perpetual universal journey.
On the lighter side, he was completely tuned into spotting hawks and sacred birds from hundreds of feet away. He thoroughly enjoyed food, although it never showed in his girth, and he could enviously keep refueling that engine more than the rest of us. He had a quick sense of humor and wit, which he humbly delivered in a quiet yet poignant way. Ron was full of surprises, including giving special gifts that would commemorate friendships and again make us recall what a loving and thoughtful friend he was.
We will miss this bright light but his energy will always be around us and never forgotten. Ron knows that there is no word for goodbye in Lakota, which is appropriate since we shall meet up with him in our own spiritual awakenings time and again.-Written by Beth; one of the best Ron’s friends.
Memorial services will be held at the Fort Harrison State Park, Shelter C (Cherry Tree), on Friday, May 6th, 2016.
Address: 6000 N. Post Road, Indianapolis, IN 46216
Entrance at Post Road & 59th St.,
Approximate time 4p.m.-8p.m.
Food will be served. You are welcome, but not required to bring a dish and a chair.
Park entrance is $7/car; you may mention Ron’s memorial service at the gate and enter at no cost.
Terry Russell says
Very sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. I worked with Ron many years while working with IBM. I remember when he 1st told me about meeting and then marrying his wife. He was so ecstatic and excited, he just couldn’t wait to tell anyone who would listen. He was a great co-worker and a good friend. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. My deepest condolences to Ron’s wife and family on their loss.
Larry Hess says
I am very sorry to hear of Ron’s passing.We shared many happy moments together both at work and during our free time. Ron was a talented individual.
Larry Hess
Delbert Wright says
I’m am saddened to hear of Ron’s passing.
I didn’t know Him well , but He was a good and kind person and an asset to IBM. My condolences to his family.
John Pangburn says
I worked with Ron and can say that he will be missed. He was a joy to be around and work with
Glenda Stauske says
You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God Bless Natalia and her family in their time of loss. God Bless
Chris Suter says
I am very sad to hear of Ron’s passing. I worked with Ron at IBM for many years. We shared many memorable adventures both on and off the work field. I miss you Ron.
Rod Himan says
Saddened to hear of Ron’s passing. I worked with Ron for many years at IBM. You always wanted to be around Ron and I regret not knowing Ron more outside of work. My prayers to his family.
Sam LeStourgeon says
I’m saddened to hear of Ron’s passing. We worked together at IBM in the late 70s & early 80s. He had a good sense of humor and was a fun co-worker.
Wayne Deutsch says
He will greatly missed in many (Circles) Pow-Wows.. Sun Dance an cermonial…an at the Spirtiulist church.. May your Journey be Quick on the Back of the Thunderbird.. ” Death, There is no Death, only a change of Worlds” Chief Seattle 1859
Scott Nall says
I was one of Ron’s physicians. I looked forward to him coming in every month. I always told him that he taught my medical students more than I taught them. He always had some advice on the use of herbs for different ailments. I had not seen him for a few months and feared the worst so I googled his name and found out my fear was founded in truth. Here is to a great man, with great skills, and a great love of life.