June 29, 1927 – January 11, 2017Harold R. Koern, 89 of Coloma, passed away on Wednesday, January 11, 2017, at his home.
A Celebration of Life Service will take place on Monday, January 16, 2017 at 11 AM at Grace Lutheran Church, 404 Glenlord Rd., St. Joseph, with Pastor Noah Headrick officiating. Burial will follow at North Shore Memory Gardens in Coloma. Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, January 15, 2017 from 3 PM until 5 PM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Lutheran Church. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so atwww.starks-menchinger.com.
Harold was born on June 29, 1927, in Benton Harbor to August & Wanda (Frederick) Koern. In 1945, he graduated from Benton Harbor High School. After graduation, Harold enlisted in the Army and proudly served our country until 1947. On March 31, 1951, he married the love of his life, Carla Frantz, who preceded him in death on November 16, 1997. Harold retired from Whirlpool after 40 years of working on their factory line. After retirement, he joined the group Whirlpool Old Timers where he would enjoy the company of former co-workers. Harold was also a member of Grace Lutheran Church and the VFW Post 1137. He was an avid baseball fan, especially of the Chicago Cubs, and many years ago he helped co-found the Hager Baseball Association. Harold was an incredible man who will be missed dearly by all.
Harold is survived by his sons, Kyle Koern of Coloma and Kevin Koern of Essexville, MI; daughter, Gayle (James) Peterson of Stevensville; grandchildren, Jennifer (Billy) Smith, Corey (Elizabeth) Koern, and Jonathon Peterson; great-grandchildren, Zachary Stephens and Jillian Koern; step-grandchildren, Joshua Miller-Henry, Brandon Pierce, Alexandria Purser and Blake Smith; and sister, Helene Kuball.
Harold was preceded in death by his parents; wife; granddaughter, Tina Koern; brothers, Ervin, Robert, Arnold and Donald Koern; and sisters, Emma Wedde, Dorothy Ransom and Sandra Guzzo.