Henry Kearns, 74; Ex-Export-Import Bank Director

Henry Kearns, head of the Export-Import Bank of the United States from 1969 until 1973, has died of cancer in San Francisco.

He was 74 and at his death was president of Kearns International which helps U.S. firms develop business overseas. Before being named head of the Export-Import Bank by President Richard M. Nixon, he served in the Eisenhower Administration as assistant secretary of Commerce for International Affairs.

At one time he owned a car dealership and raised citrus in Southern California where he was a member of the Los Angeles County Republican Central Committee and president of the Tournament of Roses Assn.

Kearns is survived by his wife, Marjorie, four children and five grandchildren. He died Wednesday.