Pamela Sue Kerchner's Obituary
Pamela Sue Kerchner, age 69, of Rathbun, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 22, 2026, at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines.
Pam was born on August 20, 1956, in Centerville, Iowa, to William Joe Fike and Beverly Ann (Wood) Fike. She graduated from Cedar Falls High School with the Class of 1974 and carried the same hardworking spirit throughout her life that she had developed in her younger years.
On June 23, 1996, Pam married the love of her life, Robert "Bobby" Paul Kerchner Jr. Together they built nearly three decades of memories, friendship, and unwavering companionship. This year would have marked their 30th wedding anniversary, a milestone that reflected the strength of the life they created together.
Pam spent many years working as a restaurant server, where her outgoing personality and genuine nature made lasting impressions on both coworkers and customers. She had a way of making people feel welcome, whether with a smile, a laugh, or simply by speaking her mind.
Home was where Pam was happiest, especially when she was surrounded by the things she loved most. Her dogs were family, and some of her favorite days were spent taking them to swim at Rathbun Lake. She found joy in tending to her plants, creating crafts with her hands, and exploring the outdoors. Nature was her sanctuary, and she could often be found searching creek beds and hillsides for geodes and interesting rocks, always excited by the treasures waiting to be discovered.
Pam was known as a true spitfire. She never sugarcoated her thoughts and believed honesty was the best policy. If you asked for her opinion, you were certain to get it. Yet beneath that straightforward exterior was an incredibly caring and generous heart. If someone needed help, Pam was there without hesitation. Her kindness was sincere, her loyalty unwavering, and her love for family, friends, and animals ran deep.
Left to cherish Pam's memory are her mother, Bev Fike; her father, Bill (Jackie) Fike; her siblings, Cyndy (Roger) Butts and Lisa Fox; her nieces and nephew, Heather, Allisa, Meredith and Ben; as well as several extended family members and friends.
Pam was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Kerchner Jr. on April 26, 2025.
Per wishes, cremation has been accorded and services will be announced in the future. Memorials may be made to Lisa Fox, to be used towards final expenses, and can be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Kerchner Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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