Riley Parker Kern

Riley Parker Kern, 19, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away suddenly on July 27, 2018 at Albany Medical Center in New York. He was born on August 4, 1998 in Topeka, son of Paul Gumpher and Emily Kern. Riley attended Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School in Ravena, New York, then later attended Topeka High School where he graduated in 2017.

He had so many life-long Kansas friends. He grew up with many and they remained best friends. They enjoyed sitting by a fire, camping, telling stories, laughing, and just being together. They will forever have memories of Riley that will last a life time.

After graduating high school, Riley moved to New York to discover which path to take in life. He had so many friends there, but closest to him was the “Feurabush Crew”. Together they were adventure seekers, jumping off the Furlong Cliffs, riding motorcycles, camping, and over all being around all the people he loved. Riley loved the thrill of what life could be and he did not let his fears hold him back.

So many people will remember him by how respectful, polite, and how great of a friend he was. He could always put a smile on anyone’s face. He loved being around his family and all of his friends in New York and Kansas made him feel calm and loved.

He accomplished so many things in his short time here. Riley was baptized and received his first communion at Holy Name Catholic Church, earned his black belt in Taekwondo, and completed his motorcycle safety course.

Riley is preceded in death by a grandfather, Dennis Gifford.

He is survived by his mother Emily Kern of Topeka, father Paul Gumpher of Albany, New York; sister Jade Kern of Topeka; grandparents Mary Gifford of Topeka, Phyllis (Kenny) Wilkes of Topeka, LeRoy Gumpher Jr. of Louisberry, Pennsylvania, and Richard (Irina) Kern of Boca Raton, Florida; Great Grandmother Marie Hoss of Claflin, Kansas; and his dog Bella. He is also survived by the special people close to his heart who were like family to him, The Harbeck Family, The Gonzales Family, and The Lane Family.

 Rosary will be prayed at Brennan Mathena Funeral Home, August 3, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. Family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, August 4, 2018 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. Cremation will follow.

Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands Humane Shelter and sent in the care of Brennan Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW Sixth Ave, Topeka, KS 66603