Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Tracy Joe Kern, 51, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on February 16, 2024 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
He was born on April 26, 1972 to Harvey Duane and Helen (Pantoja) Kern in Hardin, Montana. He moved to Worland when he was 15 years old. Tracy finished the school of hard knocks and earned his GED in 1990.
Tracy's career in the oil field began just after getting his GED, where he displayed dedication and expertise. After a night on the town, Tracy met Doris at The Little Chicago and their connection was immediate. They married shortly after meeting, and Tracy lovingly adopted Doris's son, Jordan. Together, Tracy and Doris welcomed two more children, Nathan and Morgan, into their family. After 25 years of marriage, Tracy and Doris parted ways, and Tracy found companionship and happiness with Janelle Anderson, with whom he spent the rest of his life.
Music was Tracy's passion. He was a talented musician who could play the guitar, piano, and drums. He wrote his own music and was part of several bands, including "Morgan's Boys" and "Shark Twain." Tracy's love for music extended to performing, and he entertained audiences at Nowood stock, as well as local restaurants and bars. Even in his final days, Tracy found joy in singing and sharing his musical talents with others.
In addition to music, Tracy had a passion for cooking, especially barbecue. He enjoyed bringing the family together for meals and laughter, always finding reasons to celebrate life. Tracy was known for his sense of humor and playful nature. He had a big heart and was always willing to help those in need. Tracy never met a stranger and made friends wherever he went. He had a love for travel and dreamed of buying a house in Hawaii to enjoy the warm weather and beautiful surroundings. His adventurous spirit and zest for life inspired those around him.
Tracy Joe Kern will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His kindness, humor, and love for life will be remembered fondly. His legacy of love, laughter, and music will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Survivors include his grandmother, Cruz Ringle; parents, Harvey and Helen Kern; continued lifelong friend, Doris Kern of Worland; significant other, Janelle Anderson of Worland; children, Jordan (Kate) Kern of Green River, Wyoming, Morgan Kern of Worland, Nathan Kern (Taysha Bridges) of Worland and son-by-choice, Keaton Grayeda (Natasha Chopping) of Worland; brothers, Chad (Annie) Kern of North Dakota and Paul (DeNaye) Kern of Bridger, Montana; grandchildren: Tinley, Sadie, Wright, Rhyett, Macyn, Elyzah, Edyn, Sameline, Zeppelin, Zaydyn, Remington and Rhyis.
A celebration of life will be held 2:00 PM, Saturday April 27, 2024 at the Fraternal Order of Eagle's Worland Aerie & Auxiliary 3096. Memorial donations may be made to the Washakie Hospital Foundation Cancer fund. Please send checks to PO Box 524 Worland, Wyoming 82401. Online condolences may be made at http://www.bryantfuneral
homeonline.com.