James E Kern

James Ellsworth Kern, 90, of Fort Gratiot, died Monday, January 19, 2026.

He was born April 29, 1935 in Marilla, New York to the late Roy and Ethel Kern.

James grew up on a farm and enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating from high school. He later accepted an invitation to become a partner at Popular Printing in Port Huron, beginning a long career in the printing industry. He worked at several printing shops, including Riverside, Thorpe, and Acorn Printing, before purchasing Riverside Printing and attending business school. A true artist on the printing press, James was hands-on and known for the quality of his work and service. He was a member of the Blue Water Business Association and the Chamber of Commerce. A lifelong hockey fan, he supported youth hockey programs, including Silver Sticks. After retiring he moved to Sun City, Arizona, where he lived for 25 to 30 years. He enjoyed golfing, was a lifetime member of B.P.O.E. Lodge #343 and will be remembered for his great, sarcastic sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia; two daughters, Andrea (Ron) Hartson and Trina Avedisian; two grandchildren, Patrick (Elissa) Hartson and Audrey (Ben) MacDonald; former wife and mother of his children, Mary L. Stevens; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Joshua James Avedisian; and two brothers, Bill and Allen Kern.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026 in Pilgrim Lutheran Church with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. The Reverend Michael Opfermann will officiate. Military honors will be conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Army and the St. Clair County Allied Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Clair County Veteran’s Council.

Arrangements are by Pollock-Randall Funeral Home. To send condolences, visit pollockrandall.com