By Benson Jugde| Published: June 16, 2026
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IOWA — Makenzi Nichole Kern, affectionately known as “Kenz,” a beloved community leader, youth advocate, and dedicated professional with the YMCA of Greater Omaha, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 26 on June 8, 2026.
Family members confirmed her passing following unforeseen health complications while she was traveling in Saint Barthélemy. Kern died just two days after celebrating her 26th birthday on June 6. According to family accounts, she was surrounded by some of her closest friends during what had been intended as a once-in-a-lifetime Caribbean getaway.
Life and Legacy
Born on June 6, 2000, Kern grew up in Council Bluffs, Iowa, where she became known for her warmth, generosity, and ability to bring joy to those around her. Friends and family describe her as someone whose humor, compassion, and loyalty left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
A 2018 graduate of Lewis Central High School, Kern later attended Iowa State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies in 2022. During her time at the university, she was an enthusiastic supporter of the Cyclones and formed friendships that remained central to her life long after graduation.
After completing her studies, Kern began her career with the YMCA of Greater Omaha. She first served as a Youth and Family Director before advancing to Membership Director at the Armbrust Branch. Colleagues remembered her commitment to serving families, building community connections, and ensuring others felt welcomed and valued.
Those closest to her say Kern possessed a rare ability to make people feel seen and appreciated. Even as a child, her selfless nature was evident.
“She would let all of the kids on the playground go down the slide first, saying, ‘You go first, I’ll get a turn later,'” her family recalled in a tribute.
Kern’s love of adventure was equally memorable. She cherished time on the water, whether boating with her father, water skiing, swimming, or exploring new experiences. During her final trip to Saint Barthélemy, friends recalled her excitement after trying a Seabob watercraft for the first time, joking that they practically had to pull her away because she enjoyed it so much.
Her relationships with family members were among the most important aspects of her life. She shared a particularly close bond with her sister, Delani, with whom she had recently moved in. Though the sisters often teased and challenged one another, loved ones say their loyalty was unwavering.
Kern’s passing has also drawn broader public attention due to reports that she was part of a celebratory bachelorette trip for Jade Jones, fiancée of professional basketball player Tyrese Haliburton. Friends had traveled to Saint Barthélemy beginning June 2 to celebrate Jones’ upcoming wedding. Social media posts from the trip showed joyful gatherings and birthday celebrations before activity abruptly ceased following Kern’s medical emergency.
Despite the attention surrounding the circumstances, family members have emphasized remembering Kern for the life she lived rather than the tragedy of her passing.
“To know Makenzi was to love her,” her obituary states, capturing a sentiment echoed by countless friends, colleagues, and relatives who continue to share tributes online.
Community Impact
Throughout her life, Kern built lasting friendships and fostered meaningful connections. Friends describe her as someone who never sought the spotlight, preferring instead to make others laugh with a well-timed joke or sarcastic remark.
Even though she often avoided being the center of attention, people naturally gravitated toward her. Her kindness, authenticity, and ability to make strangers feel like lifelong friends became defining characteristics of her legacy.
Funeral and Memorial Information
According to the family’s official announcement:
- Location: Celebration of Life services are currently pending.
- Date & Time: To be announced by the family.
- Protocol: Additional information regarding attendance, memorial arrangements, and charitable contributions will be shared once finalized.
Kern is survived by her mother, Teri Dietchler (David Dietchler); father, Chris Kern (Lona Smart); sister, Delani Kern (Chase Ahlers); boyfriend, Alan Dungan; step-siblings Kyleigh Austin and Alex Smart; grandparents Meerl and Karen Bever, Bonnie Waters, and Chuck Kern, along with numerous extended family members and close friends.
Her death leaves a profound void among family, friends, colleagues, and the many lives she touched through her work and friendships. While her life ended far too soon, those who knew her say her spirit, laughter, and generosity will continue to inspire others for years to come.
Editorial Note: This report has been compiled using verified statements from the Kern family, publicly shared obituary information, and tributes released by relatives and friends following Makenzi Kern’s passing.