Matthew Kern Crisman

Matthew Kern Crisman, lovingly known as Kern to all who knew him, was born to Bart and Jaylene (Pond) Crisman on March 23, 1964, in Abilene, Texas. He passed away peacefully at his home in Altus on the afternoon of Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the age of 61, following a courageous year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. Kern’s strength, humor, and faith never wavered as he walked this difficult journey before the Lord called him home.

Kern met his true person in life, Mandy Bowers, while the two were working together in a church youth group in Abilene. Their connection was immediate and deep, and it didn’t take long for them to realize it was much more than friendship. They married on July 20, 2002, and later relocated to Altus, where they began their 23-year journey of marriage—a covenant built on love, friendship, faith, and adventure.

Kern was a man of many talents, especially when it came to fixing things around the house. Mandy never had to worry about the “honey-do” list—if something needed doing, Kern did it. He had a quick wit, a fun-loving personality, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He loved camping, hiking, and finding peace in the mountains. He was known for his legendary dad jokes and his knack for making up silly lyrics to songs, filling the home with laughter.

A devoted sports fan, Kern could often be found watching football or golf, cheering on his favorite teams with calm enthusiasm. But above all else, Kern was a devoted husband and father. He led his family with faith and love, serving as the spiritual rock of their home.

Together, Kern, Mandy, James, and Ava took part in multiple mission trips, spreading the love of Christ wherever they went. Kern served faithfully at Tamarack Road Church of Christ, first as a deacon and later as an elder. He led with humility, wisdom, and a servant’s heart.

Kern shared a special bond with both of his children. James fondly remembers the daily school drop-offs with chocolate milk and honeybuns—small but meaningful moments that became treasured memories. The two often went backpacking, where the stillness of nature deepened their father-son bond.

With Ava, Kern shared a love for music—yes, even musicals. Each March, they celebrated their shared birthday month by attending a musical together, a beloved tradition that brought them joy and strengthened their father-daughter connection.

His parents, Bart and Jaylene; and brother, Kyle preceded in him death.

Kern leaves behind a true legacy full of love and faith—a life lived fully, a family led with grace, and memories that will be cherished forever in his wife, Mandy; children whom he loved and was so incredibly proud of, James and Ava; sister, Keri Vaughan and husband, John; in-laws that loved him like he was their very own, Robert and Dana Bowers; brother-in-law, Andy Bowers and wife, Vanessa; sisters-in-law, Megan Bowers and Morgan Helwer and husband, Mark; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and church family.

Mandy and children will formally greet friends from 6:00 – 8:00 PM on Monday, August 11th, at Kincannon Funeral Home. Services are scheduled for 2:00 PM on Tuesday, August 12th, in the Kincannon Memorial Chapel with Pastors Henry Holub and Adam Matthews officiating. Burial will immediately follow at the Altus City Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

In lieu of flowers the family humbly requests memorials in Kern’s name be made to the Tamarack Road Church of Christ Food Pantry Mission at 1000 E. Tamarack Road, Altus, OK 73521.

The service livestream may be viewed at https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc1NDY3NzkxMzM3NTI0MyZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==. Online tributes may be made at www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.