Kevin James Tarbrake

It is with tremendous sorrow and much love that the family of Kevin Tarbrake announces his sudden passing on June 25, 2021.  Kevin resided in Beltsville, MD.    

Kevin was a devoted and loving husband of 30 years to Mary.  Cherished and supportive son of Ann Marie and Charles Tarbrake.  Treasured brother of Patti Little (Greg), Charles (Danielle), Chris (Socrates Trujillo), Katie and David.  Adored uncle of Kelly, Caitlin Thompson (Danny), Tommy (Kelly), Jacob, Max, and Lizzie Little; Daniel, Brandon, Grace, Kacey, and Kyle Tarbrake; Kelsey, Erin Jarboe (Chris) and Tim Wright; and Marie and James Sheehan.  Bonus uncle to Maribeth Harrington and Reece and Carson Jarboe. Proud great uncle of Miyah, Bailey, Landon, Nova and Jack.  Loved by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.  Dedicated son-in-law to Jim and Joan Sheehan, and brother-in-law to Kathy, Susie, and Tom and Laura Sheehan.  Steadfast friend of Ray Barrett and Kelly and Rich Harrington.

He was preceded in death by his father Charles, sisters Patti and Katie, nieces Kelly and Marie, nephew Max, and in-laws Jim and Joan Sheehan.

Kevin was a gentle soul with a kind and generous spirit.  He had a huge heart that loved deeply and fiercely.  He was the consummate protector, especially for the women in his life.  He was a man of few words who was defined more by his actions, but when he spoke it had meaning and was thoughtful.  A patient and caring listener, he had a genuine interest in what others felt and thought and was available to talk for hours.  Whatever was said was important to him.  He did not judge, and his compassionate personality put others at ease.   

A 1980 graduate of High Point High School, he was a skilled and gifted craftsman.  He learned auto mechanics from his dad and later mastered the art of carpentry, drywall finishing and welding.  He had a strong work ethic and was happy to share his talent and time with family and friends who needed work done on their homes, making the work seem effortless.  

A big kid himself, he loved spending time with his nieces and nephews and could often be found in the middle of the fray as their partner in crime.  As the fun uncle with a great sense of humor, he loved to make them laugh and would go to any length to put a smile on their faces.  Some accused him of instigating their rambunctious behavior.

He loved to play golf and travel.  He also looked forward to the gatherings with his extended family, where they could get together after years of being apart and it would be as if they had not missed a day.  The loss of Kevin will be felt deeply by so many of his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions be considered for the Beltsville Volunteer Fire Department.  Contributions or notes of sympathy to any of the Tarbrake family may be sent to Mary Tarbrake (c/o Kathleen Sheehan) at P.O. Box 1543 Beltsville, MD 20704.