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[Mr. Kern was hit by the passing train, early on the morning of July 31st.]

William Kern was born at Richenbach, Hesse-Darmstaadt, Germany, in 1844, and was the son of Jacob and Catherine Kern.  His mother died when he was about 14 years of age and he came to this country when 17 years of age.  After he had been here for some time he returned to Germany to bring over the family and then again came to this country.  Shortly after his return to Mansfield he and his brother, George Kern, went into the meat business in the old market house, which was situated where the city building now stands.  From there he removed his place of business to North Main Street and then to East Third Street, where it is now located.

He was united in marriage to Miss Catharine Gerisch, daughter of Jacob Gerisch, March 11, 1869.  Five children, three sons and two daughters, all of whom are living, were the result of the union.  They are Louis, William, Arthur, Mrs. Laura Wiles and Mrs. Anna Dill.  Three sisters of the deceased, Mrs. Dr. Manhart, Mrs. Philip Bessinger and Mrs. Catharine Bauman, reside at Galion.  Mrs. David Meltzer and Mrs. Charles Floeck, sisters, reside here, and Mrs. Mary Herboldt, a sister who resides in California.  Fred and George Kern, the brothers of the deceased, reside and are in business in this city.  

Mr. Kern was an elder in St. Paul's German Lutheran Church of West Third Street.  He was respected for his sterling worth and his honest business principles and the news of his death was a severe shock to his many friends.

The funeral will be held Friday afternoon, at 3:00 as some of the relatives will not be able to reach the city until that time.  The services will be held at the residence on Park Avenue West, and will be conducted by Rev. Boethelt and Rev. Wiles.

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