Kern David Karkos

Kern Karkos

February 28, 1968 - August 9, 2026

Kern Karkos, 58, of Denver, CO passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on August 9, 2026.

Born and raised in Wilton, Maine, Kern loved playing in the outdoors throughout his life. A compassionate, gentle man who professed himself a cynical curmudgeon, Kern always felt compelled to help anyone who needed it to the fullest extent of his ability and beyond; if he didn't know how to help, he'd figure it out, and in his infinite meticulosity, he'd usually do a damn good job. He was a jack of all trades and master of several, having spent time as a blueberry picker, cross-country runner, librarian, and stay-at-home dad before becoming a handyman par excellence. He also touched many lives as a Destination Imagination coach, teaching the neighborhood kids acting, building, and creative problem-solving skills, and several of his teams would go on to win their events at the regional, state, and global level.

Kern is survived by his wife, Susan; his children, Peter and Tia; his parents, David and Irene Karkos; and his siblings, Kandi, Kirk, and Kayla.

Kern loved hiking in the Colorado mountains. Donations can be made in his name to Jefferson County Open Space Foundation Land and Trails Trust or to Colorado Destination Imagination. A celebration of Kern's life will be held on Saturday, August 22 at 1:00 in Denver. For more information, contact celebratingkern@gmail.com.