Remembering Makenzi Kern, 26, After a Joyful St. Barthelemy Trip

Makenzi Nichole Kern, known as Kenz, 26, died June 8, 2026 from health complications during a celebratory trip to St. Barthelemy, two days after her 26th birthday. A Council Bluffs, Iowa native who graduated from Lewis Central High School in 2018 and Iowa State University in 2022 with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies, she worked at the YMCA of Greater Omaha as a Youth and Family Director and later as Membership Director for the Armbrust Branch. Loved for her humor, generosity, and love of water, she is survived by her mother Teri Deitchler, father Chris Kern, sister Delani Kern, boyfriend Alan Dungan, and step-siblings, with Celebration of Life services pending.