George Francis Kern, age 85, of Sebeka, Minnesota, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Astera Health in Wadena, Minnesota.

George Francis Kern was born on December 30, 1940, to George and Ella (Meller) Kern in Wadena, Minnesota. His grandfather immigrated to Sebeka and homesteaded the family farm where George lived his entire life. The family has farmed for over 150 years in the Sebeka community and George joined the family tradition when he was young. He attended Wadena High School before taking over the farm from his dad. George raised dairy cows, hogs and sheep for many years along with buying, selling and hauling livestock for other farmers. He was in attendance weekly at both the Perham and Motley Sale Barn, obtaining a permanent bidding number at each.

George found love later in life and was united in marriage to Irene Goraczkowski on May 30, 1998, at St Hubert’s Church of Bluegrass, Minnesota. At 57 years old, George instantly became a stepfather and grandfather of Irene’s family, which is a role that he absolutely loved.

George enjoyed being outdoors whether that was deer hunting or going for evening drives around the farm. He played a lot of cards with the family and enjoyed spending time with them every chance he had. George was an avid bird watcher, making sure they had plenty of food and places to stay, especially Martins which were his favorite bird.

George is preceded in death by his wife of 26 years Irene, parents George and Ella, and brother Dave (Arlis) Kern.

Deeply loved, George’s passing will be mourned by his sisters Doris (Dave) Budig and Sharon (Tom) Schwartz; stepsons Bryan (Marsha) Goraczkowski and Brent (Jenny) Goraczkowski and their families; 12 nieces and nephews: Melissa, Brian, Becky, Jodi, Stephany, Deb, Doug, DeeDee, Derik, Dawn, Tina, and Tyler; many other relatives and a host of friends.