Joan Marie Kerner

Joan Marie Kerner (Kontyko) - A devoted wife, loving mother and a respected member of the Linden Community passed away peacefully on October 18, 2026 at the age of 84.

Joanie was born in Flint, Michigan on February 28, 1942. She was the daughter of William Kontyko and Marguerite (Kontyko) Varney. Joan is survived by her loving husband, Michael and three grandsons, Aidan Kerner Arensen, Ryker Richard Kerner and Kash Michael Kerner. Preceding her in death were her wonderful children, Lacey Catherine Kerner and Joshua David Kerner; her mother and father; step-father, Dr. Howard Varney; brothers, William and Gary; sister, Carole.

Joanie graduated from Flint Central High School in 1960. After graduation from Central, Joanie attended Flint Junior College where her focus was accounting and bookkeeping. Joanie's career as an accountant was rich with many experiences; working for American Airlines in New York City, social director and accountant for Lawrence Custom Homes and office manager and accountant for Weight Watchers of Western Michigan.

Joanie was well known and respected for her honesty, integrity and work ethic.

In January 1971, Joanie married Michael Kerner and they lived in Flint until 1973. Their first child, Lacey Catherine Kerner was born on October 17, 1972. The summer of 1973, the family moved to Linden. They bought the first home ever built on the North side of the Linden Mill Pond (1893). Joshua David Kerner was born on September 29, 1973. The 310 Oak St. house was Joanie's pride and joy!

Numerous renovations, updating and remodeling were done over the years. It was the center of many social events: birthday parties, graduation celebrations, team parties and visits from Santa Claus at Christmas; all of which Joanie was the ultimate organizer and hostess. She created a warm, inviting and charming house to raise Lacey and Joshua. Joanie was a "stay at home" mother until Lacey and Joshua entered school.

Joanie loved working in her yard. Her flowerbeds were absolutely beautiful. Landscaping was a real passion for Joanie. Not only did she do flowerbeds, she made the most beautiful flower pots. Her yard was a rainbow of flowers and colors. People would walk by in awe, some would, with or without permission, wander through the yard. The yard was so beautiful that seniors from the local high schools and Flint, would have their senior pictures taken in the "Kerner Gardens".

Joanie was a wonderful wife, marvelous mother and committed friend. She was strong, caring and compassionate. Her heart was gold, her intentions pure. She was a beautiful "stand up lady".

A celebration of her life will be held at 1:30PM Sunday, October 25, 2026 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Fenton Chapel, 1000 Silver Lake Rd., Fenton. Visitation will be held from 12PM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lacey C. Kerner Memorial Scholarship Fund at Linden High School.

The world changes from year to year, our lives change from day to day; but the love and memory of Joanie will never fade away. There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts.