Kern, Audrey Evonne

Audrey Evonne Kern, 87, died at peace in her home in Albuquerque, NM on September 17, 2016. Audrey was born on August 27, 1929 in Luzerne, Iowa to John Kern and Caroline Kern nee Schoelerman. She grew and discovered life on the family farm acquiring her lifelong love of nature, animals, and gardening.

Audrey came to New Mexico in 1948 to attend Highlands University in Las Vegas where she majored in home economics, joined Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority, and was a drum marjorette for the University’s marching band. Audrey met Frank Olmstead at Highlands and the two were wedded and raised their four children in Las Vegas, later relocating to Albuquerque. When her children were in school, Audrey returned to her studies and received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico. She then pursued a career in education teaching kindergarten and Headstart.

Audrey was a spiritual woman with a passion for adventure and discovery. She became deeply involved in international high school student exchange programs. She believed these student exchanges are an important way for people across the globe to develop respect and understanding for each other’s culture and traditions. Audrey gladdened people around the world with her love, energy, and optimism.

Audrey loved her children and grandchildren dearly. She touched many lives and was lovingly known by most as Mother Audrey. She is survived by her daughters Sandra Olmstead, Jennifer Olmstead and Jackie Coombes, her sons Stephen Olmstead and Younas Samadi, and her grandchildren Jessica Scott, Danielle Scott Taylor, Crystal Scott, Hana Jarrar, Jeneen Jarrar, Nicholas Olmstead, Jordan Olmstead, Karima Samadi, Kavita Samadi, and Kamila Samadi.

Audrey will be remembered at a memorial service on October 2, 2016 at 2 pm at the First Unitarian Church on 3701 Carlisle Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110. The Reverend Angela Herrera will officiate. A reception will follow in the church Social Hall.