Kern E. Young

Detective Kern Edward Young, 73, passed away peacefully at his home in Lenexa, KS surrounded by family on July 7, 2026. Kern was born December 13th, 1952 in Fort Jackson, South Carolina to Dennis and Fannie Young. Det. Young, affectionately known as "Fatboy" served the Kansas City, KS Police Department for 26 years.

"Fatboy" was passionate about six things in his life... The love of his life, Charlene Young who passed away May 23rd, 2026, his three children and their wives, his grandchildren, and making sure that victims of crimes received justice.

Kern loved his grandchildren more then anything. He always said, "I have grandkids so my kids don't matter! I still love you, but you are on your own!" Kern was the grounding force for everyone. He always had an answer for everything.

In his later years, he shared stories of his time at the police department. He was so proud to serve the Kansas City, KS community by putting two serial killers behind bars. Kern was awarded the meritorious service award in 1989 after apprehending a bank robber by himself.

Kern was preceded in death by his wife and soulmate of 44 years Charlene Young (May, 2026), his daughter Stephanie Young (1982), his brother Officer Jeffrey A. Young ( L.O.D.D 1989), his parents Dennis (2013) and Fannie (2013), Mother in law Isabel McKinley (2014), father in law Charles McKinley (1977), Sister in law Carla McKinley (2014), and Brother in law Frank McKinley (2025).

Kern is survived by his three children, Christopher (Kelly) of Olathe KS, Kenneth (Perry) of Lenexa KS, and Brian (Sarah) of Shawnee KS. Most of all, "Fatboy" is survived by his 8 almost 9 grandchildren... Kendall, Khloe, Drake, Karson, Tucker, Chase, Oliver, Wrenly, soon to be Eddie arriving October of 2026, and Mia the overprotective weiner dog who wouldn't let anyone within 10 feet of him.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be mad to Queen of the Holy Rosary or the KCKPD Police Athletic League.

Services will be held at Queen of the Holy Rosary, 7023 W 71st Street, Overland Park, Kansas 66204 on, Friday, August 21, 2026. Visitation begins at 9:30 am followed by rosary at 10:00 am with a Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 am with Police Honors. Graveside services will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. All are welcome.