HARVEY E. KERN
1996 Member
Michigan Insurance Hall of Fame
A lifelong resident of Frankenmuth and graduate of Michigan State University, Harvey E. Kern rose to the position of Chief Executive Officer of Frankenmuth Mutual Insurance Company, while also serving in executive positions with the Michigan Association of Insurance Companies, the Michigan Insurance Federation, the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the Insurance Accounting and Statistical Association. Under his leadership, Frankenmuth Mutual grew from $10 million in policyholder surplus to over $153 million to be rated by the Ward Financial Group as one of the top 50 property and casualty companies in the nation.
Harvey E. Kern is a man of vision who is widely respected. He is recognized as a leader in the insurance industry, the Frankenmuth community, his church, Saginaw City and County, and the State of Michigan. He is a man of unquestionable character whose word is his bond. He is known for his honesty and integrity, as well as his thoughtfulness and conscientiousness to details.
First arriving at Frankenmuth Mutual Insurance in 1960 and for the past eighteen years serving as Chief Executive Officer, he has demonstrated extraordinary leadership in the company and the Frankenmuth community. His contributions have improved the insurance environment and strengthened the vitality of the Frankenmuth business community which extends beyond the city borders.
He strongly supported the Frankenmuth Area United Way, supported the establishment of Junior Achievement and served on the study committee responsible for developing the Frankenmuth Area Community Foundation which provides scholarship support for needy students.
Mr. Kern retired from Frankenmuth Mutual in July 1996 and continues as Chairman of the Board. Together with his wife, Norine Koeppendorfer for nearly 45 years, they raised three daughters. In retirement, Kern will continue serving his industry and his community.