Nancy Kerns (née Power), a cherished wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away on April 23, 2025.
Born in Davenport in 1944, Nancy graduated from Bettendorf High School in 1962. Nancy met her husband of 61 years, Jim Kerns, in fifth grade. They built a life and raised their family in Dubuque.
She began her career in the typing pool at John Deere, and through talent, grit, and hard work, she rose through the ranks to build a successful career with the company. She earned her MBA from St. Ambrose while working full time — a testament to her drive and belief in the power of education and persistence. Her career at John Deere spanned 28 years, retiring in 2002 from the construction equipment division.
After an incredible journey at John Deere, she embarked on a new chapter in her life, taking on the role of a voluntary Senior Health Insurance Advisor. In this capacity, she provided personalized counseling to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers. Her wealth of experience and commitment to service made an impact on the lives of those seeking guidance in these areas.
She was a devoted mother, balancing her professional life with unwavering support for her two boys. Whether it was school, sports, or any new interest they pursued, she was always there cheering them on, offering advice, and reminding them they could do anything they set their minds to.
Outside of work and family, she was just as dynamic. She was an avid sports fan, and never met a book or puzzle she did not love. Her mind was always at work —whether solving problems at the office or cracking the Sunday puzzle at home.
Nancy is survived by her beloved husband, Jim Kerns, Eldridge, and her children, Scott Kerns of Avon Lake, Ohio, Dann Kerns (Sharon) of Wentzville, Mo. She was a proud grandmother to Adison, Rachel, and Charlie, and a great-grandmother to Isaiah. Nancy’s memory will also be treasured by her siblings, David Power (Cindy) of Le Claire, Warren Power (Sheri) of Davenport, and Sally Power (Henry) of Berkley, Calif. She will also be remembered by her extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and her many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Nancy Porter Power.
Nancy’s life will be celebrated on the afternoon of Saturday, July 12, from 2–4 p.m. at Rustic Ridge Golf Course Clubhouse, 1151 E. Iowa St., Eldridge.
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