Arol Wayne Kern, formerly of Benton

Arol Wayne Kern, 72, of Union Grove, Wis., formerly of Benton, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2018, at his residence.

He was born May 29, 1945, in Benton to Arol and Edna (nee Smith) Kern. His early life was spent in Benton, where he graduated from grade school. In high school he attended Union Grove High, graduating in the class of 1964. He was an excellent athlete who set many track and field records at the school and was 1963 prom king.

On Oct. 18, 1969, he was united in marriage with Paulanne Cates at Bethel Baptist Church. Paulanne passed away Sept. 19, 2017. Following their marriage, they resided in Union Grove. He was employed at American Roller for 44 years.

Wayne was a very faith-filled man, and his faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was very important to him. On April 30, 1972, he became an ordained deacon. He was very involved in his church driving the church bus, as leader for the youth group and teaching Sunday School. Anyone who ever met him and knew him would say he was the kindest most selfless person they ever met. He truly was a man of God.

Wayne is survived by his children, Melissa (Christopher) Brouwers of Union Grove, Eric (Brandi) Kern of Knoxville, Tenn., and Michelle (Brian) Vance of Racine, Wis.; grandchildren Ashley (Adam) Blatnick, Zachary Brouwers, Dylan Brouwers, Alec Kern, Macey Kern, Hannah Kern, Hunter Kern, Kara Vance, Tyler Vance and Logan Vance; great-grandchild Ryder Kern; sister Janet Linkey; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and a sister, Jean Gholson.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Union Grove Fire and Rescue, Fonk's Home Center and all his wonderful neighbors for all their care and compassion.

Funeral services took place Monday, Jan. 15, 2018, at Immanuel Baptist Church. Visitation was Sunday, Jan. 14 at Polnasek-Daniels funeral home and again Monday at the church. Burial took place following the service at Union Grove Cemetery.

Polnasek-Daniels Funeral Home and Crematory was in charge of arrangements.