Nathan Preston Kern - Obituary

ith profound sadness, we announce the passing of Nathan “Nate” Preston Kern, who left us unexpectedly on March 12, 2025, at his home in Columbia, Maryland. Nate was born in Ansbach, Germany, where his parents, Carrol Josephine Redington and Robert Preston Kern, were stationed with the U.S. Army. His early years were a journey across continents - Germany, Australia, and Texas - before settling in Annapolis, Maryland. A gifted athlete, he excelled in varsity football and rugby at Broadneck High School, later continuing his football career at Frostburg State University. During his college years, he formed lifelong bonds as a brother of Kappa Zeta Chi (KZX). After college, Nate spent time working in the food industry at several Annapolis restaurants before embarking on a career in the mortgage industry. He found his calling at New Penn Financial, later known as NewRez, in Columbia, Maryland, where he built an impressive career as a Senior Mortgage Consultant. Licensed in over 20 states, he was a trusted professional, known for his integrity and dedication. Beyond his career, football was at the heart of Nate’s soul, and as a devoted Baltimore Ravens fan, he rarely missed a game. His love for the sport was matched only by his love for the camaraderie it brought. Mornings were spent in the gym, lifting weights with his friends, and weekends were often filled with rounds of golf alongside his stepfather, Jim, colleagues, and friends. An adventurer at heart, Nate embarked on fishing expeditions to the Brazilian Amazon, Panama, and Guatemala with his father, brother Rob, and good friend Dave Edwards. These trips weren’t just about the catch, they were about the stories, the laughter, and the bonds forged along the way. Nate had a rare gift for bringing joy to those around him. His magnetic personality, infectious smile, and quick wit made him a friend to all. He carried an unwavering optimism, even through life’s hardships, always choosing to see the bright side. He was deeply devoted to his friends and family, especially his mother, to whom he was fiercely loyal. He leaves behind a family who cherished him: his mother, Carrol “Darb” Redington, and stepfather, James Redington, of Annapolis, MD; his father, R. Preston Kern, and stepmother, Margarete Kern, of Berryville, VA; his brother, Robert K. Kern and his sister, Christina Schwarz and her husband Michael. He also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, a niece, and a nephew, and countless friends who were lucky enough to know and love him. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched. Friends are invited to celebrate Nate’s life Tuesday, April 1 from 2:00 pm until his memorial service begins at 3:00 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD, with a reception to follow. To know Nate was to know laughter, loyalty, and a heart full of kindness. His legacy will live on in the memories of those who loved him. Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.