Troy M. Kern was born in Wichita, Kansas on April 4, 1967, to TaMyra Bowhay and Joseph Kern. He passed away at the age of 57 on Monday, June 17, 2024. He graduated from Wichita Heights High School in 1985. He worked for many years as a skilled carpenter doing jobs including roofing, painting, carpet laying and remodeling bathrooms just to name a few of his accomplishments.
Troy was an arborist, cutting down trees and splitting and stacking wood for the winter months. That was another way he was able to put his hands to good use. His hobbies included playing many rounds of golf with his dad and uncles Jim and Jack. They would never disclose how many clubs ended up in the ponds though. He loved anything to do with the outdoors. He enjoyed boating and fishing. He especially liked going out at night so he could take his great danes, Hades and Zues with him to share those experiences. This was a great time to take them running and get some exercise as well. Troy loved the sport of disc golf. He was very good at it, playing in many tournaments both in town and out of town. He usually placed in the top three finishers, always returning home with a big smile on his face and winnings in his pocket.
December 2008 was a very special time in Troy’s life. That was when he became the proud father of Joshua Roman Kern. He spent the next eight years with Joshua before returning to Wichita. They were still able to spend many birthdays and other special occasions together celebrating. Countless hours were spent on long distance telephone conversations and numerous lengthy text messages. Joshua was able to come back this past Christmas and reconnect personally with his father and family. Troy leaves Joshua with many, many fond memories.
Troy’s life wasn’t without great trials and challenges, and while his death came as a shock to his family and friends, he was loved by many and will be greatly missed. Those many family members and friends may not have always known or understood what was in his heart or mind, but they always wanted the best for him and wished him that.
As our minds and hearts begin the journey of healing and finding peace and understanding following Troy’s death, we will always remember the many good memories of having Troy in our lives.
Troy is survived by his mother TaMyra Kern (Jim Hamilton) of Park City, Ks. and his son, Joshua Roman Kern of Phoenix, AR. He is also survived by his aunts Donna Stafford, Mulvane, Ks., Sue Kern, Wichita, Ks., and Terry Bradley, Fairfield Bay, Ark. uncles Jim Kern, Winfield, Ks., Harold Bowhay, Andale, Ks, Jack Kern, and Jerry Bowhay, Wichita, Ks, numerous cousins and friends.
Troy was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Kern; grandparents, LaZerne Bowhay, Emil & Velda Kern, and Howard & LaVerin Zimmerman; his aunts Barbara Nance and Tina Watts; uncle Jere Kern and a cousin, Jonathan Bradley.
Troy’s family wishes to extend our sincere appreciation to everyone for their many acts of kindness shown during our time of losing Troy. Following cremation, services will be scheduled later.
To share a memory or additional expressions of sympathy can be sent to TaMyra Kern in care of Baker Funeral Home Valley Center at www.bakerfhvc.com.