Eldridge "Sonny" Casper Kern Jr

Eldridge “Sonny” Casper Kern Jr.

February 19, 1946 – July 16, 2026

Eldridge Casper Kern Jr., affectionately known to family and friends as "Sonny," passed away

peacefully with family by his side on July 16, 2026, at the age of 80. He lived a life defined by

love for his family, exhibited a strong work ethic he inherited from his parents, and a deep

appreciation for the outdoors.

Born on February 19, 1946, Sonny was the son of Eldridge Casper Kern Sr. and Barbara Kern.

He grew up with the values of integrity, perseverance, and kindness that would guide him

throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Ellen Kern, and nephew

Josh Biemeck. He is survived by his beloved sister and brother-in-law Janet and Howard

Biemeck.

He was a proud father to Denise and Andrea Kern (Brian Nice). Sonny is lovingly remembered

by his grandchildren Conor O’Farrell (Bonnie) and Olivia Potter (TJ), his grandchildren Donald,

Teresa, and Benaiah O'Farrell; his nieces and nephews, Susanna, Dawn, Howie, Greta, Danny, Luis,

Isaiah David, Jaidynn, Gabriel, Jeremiah, Jake, Tres, Kenya, Mya, Isaiah Samuel, Anthony,

Josephine, Jonah, Emily, and Otto, all of whom held a special place in Sonny’s heart.

Sonny spent the last years of his life with Susan John and their beloved dogs Rowdy, Oscar,

and Josie. They enjoyed traveling. Their favorite destinations were Cabo St. Lucas and Sanibel

Island, Florida.

He began his career as a machinist with Giddings & Lewis in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. In 1976,

he relocated to Pocatello, Idaho, where he worked for the Bucyrus-Erie, followed by a 22 year

career working for the Union Pacific Rail Road as a locomotive engineer. After retiring from the

railroad Sonny worked for the Department of Environmental Quality.

Sonny’s life was a testament to his faith and serving others. He was a member of Alcoholics

Anonymous, celebrating 45 years of sobriety and inspiring people in recovery. He donated blood

to the American Red Cross. He was a member of both First Baptist Church and Grace Lutheran

Church.

An avid outdoorsman, Sonny embraced every opportunity for adventure. His interests over the

years included scuba diving, metal smithing, hunting, fishing, panning for gold, mountain biking,

and exploring the outdoors. He was an accomplished photographer who captured treasured

memories of weddings and graduations.

Sonny will be remembered for his generous spirit, adventurous heart, steadfast faith, and

unconditional love for his family. His wisdom, humor, and kindness touched countless lives, and

his legacy will continue through all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Sonny’s family would like to thank the staff from the Portneuf Medical Cancer Center and Dr.

Jordan Bailey for their kindness and compassion during his cancer treatment and care.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of his family and

friends.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to www.valleymission.org/donations or donate blood

to the American Red Cross.

The celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 11:00 at Grace Lutheran

Church, 1350 Baldy Ave. in Pocatello.