Kevin Timothy Myers

POYNETTE – Kevin Timothy Myers, 51, passed away on March 17, 2025, at his home in Poynette, Wisconsin.
Kevin (also known as Waxy, Kevi, and Monkey) was born to Linda (Paske) Branish and Tim Myers on May 31, 1973. He and his sister, Billie—whom he affectionately nicknamed "Fred"—grew up in Portage, Wisconsin, until his family expanded, bringing him to Poynette. At that time, Kevin gained another dad, David Branish, and two new sisters, Dori and Becky.

While attending school, Kevin joined the Poynette Fire Department (yes, he left class to go on calls) and graduated from Poynette High School in 1992. He loved being part of the fire department, where he formed many lifelong friendships that became family. He spent much of his time learning the tools and trucks and attending as much training as possible. He had a passion for technical rescues, especially vehicle extrication and rope systems, and was certified in nearly every type of rescue imaginable. Skilled at operating all the fire trucks, he eagerly shared his knowledge with anyone interested. He also explored rescue diving, spending many years with the Columbia County Dive Team. Kevin was a tremendous asset to his community and took great pride in volunteering.

In 1994, Kevin met Carin (Meinzer) Myers and spent the rest of his life loving her in every way he could. The two married in 2001 in a perfect six-minute ceremony, followed by the best celebration they could imagine. Kevin and Carie shared a life filled with uncontrollable laughter and dreams of retirement. Their love was powerful, binding them eternally beyond any choice they may have had. Kevin took a moment almost every day to tell Carie how proud he was of her.

In 1996, Kevin received the greatest surprise of his life when his son, Tanner, was born. Though it took some time for fatherhood to sink in, Tanner filled a part of Kevin’s heart that he never knew was missing. Their uncanny resemblance was especially evident when they were secretly scheming big purchases they "needed." Kevin loved Tanner with every ounce of his being. That love only grew when Tanner's three sons became part of the family. Visits with Tanner, Sam, Jax, Blake, and Owen brought a sparkle to Kevin’s eyes and immense joy to his heart.

Kevin was fortunate to join the union at a young age as a sprinkler fitter and earned his journeyman’s certificate through Penn State. After working with Pertzborn Fire Protection for a few years, he transitioned to J.F. Ahern Company, where he spent the rest of his career. Kevin took his role seriously, listening intently whenever he heard about sprinkler systems saving buildings or lives. Through his work, he formed many friendships, both with his clients and within his Ahern family.

Kevin had a deep fascination with firearms. He obtained his federal firearms license and spent much of his time helping friends find their desired guns. Carie often teased that for every firearm he helped a friend purchase, he bought one for himself. He was highly knowledgeable and was often sought out to repair or restore old family heirlooms. Reloading ammunition brought him hours of peace.

A lover of hunting and fishing, Kevin often sought solitude in the woods or on the lake. He also had a passion for trying new and dangerous things, so when his buddies from T&T Offroad Racing introduced him to off-road truck racing, he was hooked within minutes. He started as a spectator, became part of the pit crew, and eventually owned a Stock Truck. His career highlight was a second-place finish at Crandon International Raceway, a thrilling achievement after much hard work by the entire team. After retiring from racing, he continued to support the team as a spotter, pit crew member, and moral support for the many highs and lows of the sport.

Kevin was known for his endless creativity and unique way of doing things—though he often left projects unfinished to move on to the next great idea. His big dimples and mischievous smile were unmistakable. He had an eye for the neatest gadgets and spared no expense on things that caught his attention. A big softy at heart, Kevin gave the most comforting hugs to those he cared for. At the same time, he was a fierce protector who never showed an ounce of fear. His vocabulary was liberally sprinkled with the "f" word—regardless of who was listening. He loved sharing stories with new acquaintances and deeply cherished his lifelong friends. He always responded to "I love you" with "I love you more."

Kevin is survived by his wife, Carin; his son, Tanner (Samantha) Waring; his mother, Linda Branish; his father, David Branish; his sisters, Billie Myers, Dori (Brian) Karsten, and Becky (Brian) Schutz; his brother, Aaron Myers; his brother-in-law, David (Kari) Meinzer; his grandsons, Jax, Blake, and Owen; his nieces and nephews, Jessica (Tim) Doherty, Brittany (Lex Jaramillo) Kaltenberg, Codi (Destiny Morter) Schutz, Caysee (Devon Visgar), Cassidy, and Camryn; many aunts, uncles, cousins, great-nieces and nephews; special friend T.J. Struck; his most faithful sidekick, Farley Mae; his fire department family; and countless lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Timothy (Sue) Myers; his sister, Emily Breidenbach; his grandparents; his father-in-law, David Meinzer; and his little buddy, Casey Tomlinson.

A service will be held on March 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Poynette-Dekorra Fire Station, 606 Water Tower Dr., Poynette, WI. Visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. the same day, with hors d’oeuvres served following the service.

Donations in Kevin’s memory can be made to the Poynette-Dekorra Fire Department.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Poynette, is assisting the family.