Post Messenger Recorder -

Kevin E. Legler, 62, of Evansville, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 2, 2023, at home. He was born on December 4, 1960, to Ivan and Jeannette (Klitzke) Legler.

The family farmed on Legler Road, Brooklyn, WI, until Ivan's passing. Kevin graduated from Belleville High School in 1979. He enlisted in the Army after graduation. He was a combat arms service technician and driver in a tank division in the European Theatre, earning the rank of E5/Sergeant. He enjoyed his time in Germany and visiting other European counties. After the service, he became a heavy equipment and maintenance mechanic at various companies as he advanced his skill set. He took a break from maintenance in the middle of his career and was the owner/operator of an equine transporting company due to his love of horses. Currently he was employed as a truck driver for The De Long Company. He really enjoyed this job, as it got him out into nature.

Kevin married the love of his life, Lisa Lemke-Martin, on September 9, 2009, in a beautiful ceremony in the front yard of their home.

Kevin loved being outdoors. Deer hunting, horseback riding, cutting wood, camping, working on the yard or riding his Harley were some of his favorite outdoor activities. He enjoyed going with his wife to Eagle River, WI, to help with World Championship Snowmobile Derby. Kevin was a member of the Rock River Thresheree. He loved and spoiled all our furry babies.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lisa; his step-children, Rachel (Adam) Patterson, Derek (Rachel Ann Schier) Martin, and Dylan (Brie) Martin; step-grandchildren, Cassia and Kairos Patterson, Hunter and Addy Costello; father and mother-in-law, Russell and Marlene Lemke; brother-in-law, Lorne (Julie) Lemke. He is further survived by his siblings, Patricia (Carl) Schultz, Ivan "Butch" (Peggy) Legler, Marie (Brian) Salisbury, Donald Legler, and Debbie Snyder; godchildren, Tami Legler and Cody Salisbury; nieces and nephews, Crystal (John) Viney, Connie Schultz, Candee (Jay) Christen, Cindy (Mike) Wimmer, Shane Legler, Missy (Scott Davis) Salisbury, Tami Legler, Kari (Ty) Runyan, April (Ryan) McConnell, Mitch (Tracy) Snyder and Matthew Lemke; along with 24 great and great-great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Jeannette; brother-in-law, Ritchie Snyder; nephew, Heath Aaron Salisbury; and niece-in-law, Tonya Legler.

A visitation was held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., on Monday, January 9, 2023, at Ward-Hurtley Funeral Home, Evansville, WI. Burial will take place at Peace Cemetery, Brooklyn Township, in the spring.