Doid William Kerns

Doid William “Bill” Kerns, formerly of Trumansburg/Valois, NY, passed away in his
sleep at Primrose Retirement Community in Lancaster, OH, on 26 December 2015.

He graduated from Lancaster High School Class of 1958. He served in the Navy and
Army from 1957 until 1979. He served four consecutive tours of duty with the 1st Cavalry
Division as a crew chief on Chinook helicopters. He was awarded the Air Medal with 58
oak leaf clusters representing 1416 combat flying hours. He was a member of American
Legion Post 770 in Trumansburg.

He worked for Cornell University’s Experimental Orchard and said it was the best
job he ever had because he loved the work and the great people with whom he worked.
Everyone working with him at the orchard was more like family than coworkers. He ate
most of his meals at Ron Don’s in Trumansburg where Don Scott went above and beyond
to be Bill’s friend and Curly’s in Watkins Glen where Curt and Barb Connelly served up
great comfort food and friendship.

Preceded in death by grandparents Doid and Nettie Shallenbarger-Kerns, William
and Norine-Carter Zink; parents John and Lilyan Zink-Kerns; 6 Uncles, 4 Aunts, 2 Cousins
and 1 Niece. His son Christopher Kerns of Lancaster, OH and daughter Elizabeth,
son-in-law John and grandsons Daniel, Noah and Samuel Parker of Peoria, IL; brother
Robert Kerns; sister and brother-in-law Barbara and James Karr of Lancaster; 1 Uncle;
11 Cousins; 3 Nephews; and 1 Niece survived him.

A private service will be conducted on 4 January 2016. Arrangements and cremation
are in the care of Frank E. Smith Funeral Home of Lancaster. Visit www.funeralhome.com to sign
guest book and share your memories of Bill.

Internment will be at Maple Grove Cemetery with full military honors on 4 January 2016.