Two men with distinct personalities.

Two men who navigated different career pathways to success.

Two men who will forever be heralded as icons in their communities.

Dr. John Nicholson and Peter Kern, two men with unparalleled legacies.

The former carved his legacy in Palmerton as a doctor revered for his compassion.

The latter cemented his as a community leader in both Palmerton and the West End of Monroe County.

Sadly, within a four-week span, both men entered into eternal rest.

Their passings struck a chord with me, as I personally knew both gentlemen for several decades.

Nicholson, 82, passed away on Jan. 18 in his Palmerton home surrounded by his loving family at his side.

A graduate of Marian Catholic High School, Nicholson practiced medicine for 41 years on Delaware Avenue in Palmerton, where he was also known to be an avid walker with his wife of 52 years, Joanie.

Not only did he serve as my family doctor, but various members of my family as well.

He was a kind gentleman who listened to what his patients had to say.

We all knew while in Dr. Nicholson’s care that we mattered, and weren’t just a number.

He was a throwback who made it his mission to take care of people and their families.

Kern, 83, passed away peacefully in his Brodheadsville home on Feb. 14 where he was joined by his wife and his daughter, who were at his side.

He joined the Research Department of the New Jersey Zinc Company in 1965 until he resigned in 1988 to become president and chief executive officer of Palmerton Hospital, a position he held until his retirement in 2000.

Kern was elected to two terms as a director of the Pleasant Valley School District and served two years as board president. He later served 10 years as the president of the Pleasant Valley School District Foundation.

In 1988, he was appointed to the founding board of the Horsehead Community Development Fund, and served six years in that role.

But it was Kern’s service for nearly 30 years as president of the Palmerton Area Chamber of Commerce where I first met the towering figure with a larger-than-life personality.

At the onset of last week’s Palmerton Borough Council meeting, Mayor Don Herrmann requested a moment of silence.

Both Herrmann and council President Terry Costenbader acknowledged that the borough has lost several important members of the community.

Two men who left an indelible mark through their excellence.

Two men who made an imprint on all those whose lives they touched.

Two men whose credentials and contributions will live on forever.

Rest in peace, Dr. Nicholson and Mr. Kern.

Both of you were guiding lights, and true credits to your respective professions.