Steve William Kern

In the early hours of March 5, 2025, Steve Kern passed away from complications of stage 4 pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed with this cancer just weeks prior to his death.

Steven W Kern was born on August 2, 1952, in Hardin, MT to Bill and Jean Kern. He was raised on a north valley farm where he learned many skills that helped him in his life ahead. Steve spent his life in Big Horn County, graduating from Hardin High School in 1970, a short stint at Eastern Montana College, and then entered the world of heavy equipment. He worked for Raup/Melville Ready Mix and Empire Sand and Gravel early in his career and like many of the local young men went to work at the Sarpy Creek coal mine where he worked for 28 years running various types of equipment. At the same time Steve farmed, raised cattle, and fulfilled his passion for horses by raising and training his roping horses. He enjoyed team roping for the sport, the comradeship, and the horses. He also loved to participate in the local brandings.

Steve was known for his smile, gentle demeanor, willingness to help others, and his sense of humor. That showed to the very end in how he treated the hospital staff by joking with the nurses and doctors that were at his side. Steve passed peacefully knowing that Jesus was his Lord and Savior. He also wanted his family and friends to know how much he cared for them and wished them peace as well. Steve was a country boy through and through, enjoyed the simple things in life, and viewed the world through love and not pride. He knew the value of hard work, honesty, and fairness.

Steve is survived by his mother Jean Kern, sister Susan Kern, brother Dan (Kym) Kern, niece Korynne (Seth Dolar) Kern.

Steve was preceded in death by his father William Kern and niece Natalie Kern. After the death of his father, Steve visited his mother daily and cared for her place and the farm with great love and care.

Memorials can be made in Steve’s name to the E & R church in Hardin or the Big Horn County Museum.

There will be a celebration of Steve’s life on April 5th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the E & R Church in Hardin.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Steve William Kern, please visit our Tree Store.