Kenneth Matthew McKernan

Ken McKernan was born July 22,1972 to Bill and Eileen McKernan. He was the youngest in a household of 10. Ken graduated in 1990 from Notre Dame High School in Riverside. He received his AA degree at Riverside Community College in 1994, and earned his bachelor's degree at Cal State Humboldt in 1998.

Ken had natural athletic talent and participated in many sports throughout his life. He played football for Notre Dame High School and Cal State Humboldt as a tight end. He will be remembered as a loyal teammate who was competitive, yet very light-hearted, and treated everyone equally as a genuine friend.

He worked as a substitute teacher for more than 25 years for various high schools throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, with an emphasis in the Corona / Norco School District. He was also known throughout the region as a referee / umpire at little league ballparks, high school gyms and football stadiums. He often ref'd his friends' kids or family members' ballgames, and each one could tell you it was a hoot to watch him ref a game.

Ken will be remembered for his sincere, warm smile and especially his distinctive laugh. Many of his friends claim his laughter was the most contagious laugh they have ever known. Ken was a sports aficionado, and when it came to sports trivia, he could beat anyone at the buzzer! Ken was particularly fond of both Notre Dame University and Notre Dame High School sports. Known as a Notre Dame superfan, he rooted for any and every sport Notre Dame participated in. He truly bled green & gold.

Ken passed away at his home in Norco on April 1, 2026. He is survived by his siblings Bill of Victorville, Moira of Corona, Tim of Jurupa Valley, Mike of Twin Peaks, and Dan of Riverside. He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Bill and Eileen, sister Kathleen and brother Brian.

Ken is forever young, and his jolly-good nature, friendly demeanor and boisterous laugh will always live in our memories and have a special place within our hearts. We sincerely love you Kenny!