Born in Greenwood, NY, November 6, 1933, a son of Archie and Martha (Rice) Kernan, he had resided in the Canisteo area his whole life. John was a graduate of the former Greenwood Central School; he was the only boy in his class. He was a member of the Canisteo Volunteer Fire Department, where he acted as Fire Police. John enjoyed coin collecting, handheld electronic games, playing cards and going out with friends. John will be remembered most by his family as being a kind and giving man.
He was predeceased by his parents, his wife; Maryella (Wilson) Kernan and 2 sisters; Wilma Carl and Erma Leman.
He is survived by a son; Robert (Durene) Kernan of Cameron Mills, a daughter; Roben Ritenburg of Hornell, 1 brother; Archie (Jane) Kernan of Lindley, 1 sister Audrey (Milton) Newberry of Virginia, 7 grandchildren; Tonya (Tom) Turner, Jamie Roe, Kristy (Mike Myers) Roe, Tori Ritenburg, Kaylyn Kernan, Scarlett (Josh) Kernan-Wingert and Brandon McGregor, as well as several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
To send a remembrance to the family, please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com. The family is being assisted by David W. Ames, Director.
The family will be present on Thursday (August 10, 2017) from 5-7 p.m., at the Brown & Powers Funeral Home, 6 Spruce St., Canisteo, funeral services will be held immediately following calling hours at 7 p.m., Rev. Shannon Brumfield officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Canisteo.
Friends may make memorial contributions to: the Canisteo Volunteer Fire Dept.
