Carl E. Kerns, age 72 of Chippewa Lake, passed away Thursday, August 22, 2013 surrounded by his family at his home. He was born September 6, 1940 in Widen, West Virginia, the son of Russell and Tressie (Salyers) Kerns. Carl was honorably discharged from the United States Army after serving during the Vietnam War. On, February 18, 1967, Carl married Shirley Parker in Big Rapids and they made their home in Rodney a short time before moving to Chippewa Lake where they raised their family and have resided ever since. Carl owned and operated Kerns Logging for 33years and was employed as a fairway mower at Tullymore Golf Course in Canadian Lakes for 7 years, prior to cancer. Carl was passionate about hunting and riding the quad. He was determined and a provider for his family. His sense of humor never ceased and there are several saying of Carl's that will be remembered for years to come. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Shirley Kerns of Chippewa Lake; three children, Patricia (Steven) Chapman of Chippewa Lake, Laurie (Dennis) Randall of Weidman and Carl (Debra) Kerns of Big Rapids; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Carl was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, William P. Kerns. Funeral services will take place 1:00 p.m. Monday, August 26, 2013 at the Chippewa Lake Community Church, (10490 Lake Street, Chippewa Lake) with Stephen Scott officiating. The family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, August 25th at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Interment will be at Chippewa Lake Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Carl's name may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.