Walter R. "Butch" Kernen

Walter R. “Butch” Kernen, 79, of Brilliant, OH, passed away Sunday September 21, 2025 at Trinity Medical Center West in Steubenville, OH.

He was born January 12, 1946, in Brilliant, OH, a son of the late Delbert and Esther (Saffle) Kernen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Erma (Bell) Kernen on July 14, 2011; a daughter, Debbie Shadley; two brothers, Sonny Kernen and Paul Kernen; a sister, Rose Kernan; and two great-granddaughters.

Butch was a retired mechanic, having worked at the former Matthews Chevrolet from 1967-1985 then Jefferson County Water and Sewer from 1985-1994, he then moved to Florida. He enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time outdoors. He also enjoyed spending time with his family.

Surviving are three sons, Roger (companion Janis Wilt) Scott of Brilliant, OH, James (Susie) Scott of Callahan, FL and Delbert (Nicole) Kernen of Brilliant, OH; four daughters, Mary (the late Pete) Benvenutti of Brilliant, OH, Sandra (the late Bobby Gene) Wells of Brilliant, OH, Georgia (the late Paul) Jarman of Brilliant, OH and Melissa (John) Palcic of Brilliant, OH; a brother, Ernest Kernen of Brilliant, OH; a sister, Elizabeth (the late Bill) Tonetti of McDonald, PA; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Friends will be received to celebrate Butch’s life on Sunday September 28th at the Wells Township Community Park Shelter House, 2nd St., Brilliant, OH from 1:00 p.m. until dusk. Covered dishes are welcome.

Offer condolences at www.wheelerfuneralhomes.com.

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