Kevin Boylan of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, has passed away after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy rich with warmth, music, laughter, and unwavering friendship. He was a cherished husband, father, mentor, and friend — and the proud namesake of Kevin’s Bar & Restaurant in Kingston, PA, a community hub that stands today as a testament to his spirit.
Born on St. Patrick’s Day, Kevin embodied the very essence of Irish joy — full of song, wit, heart, and hospitality. He wasn’t just the life of the party — he was the soul behind the smiles, the one with a story, a laugh, and a warm embrace for everyone who crossed his path.
For those lucky enough to know him, Kevin wasn’t simply a restaurateur. He was a mentor, a storyteller, and a man who believed in connection above all. As his friend and colleague at Kevin’s Bar wrote in a heartfelt tribute, “Paramount to anything said about his very many successes, he cared more about the friendships and family he earned through all that he met.”
JJ Iracki shared memories of Kevin that echoed in many hearts: “There are people that come into your life and leave a lasting impression. That was Mr. Kevin Boylan… Always greeted me with a smile and a hug. He’s one of the great ones.”
Colleen Boylan Greig, his niece, expressed comfort in believing that Kevin has now reunited with his beloved brother Patrick, saying, “They are most definitely holding an Irish concert tonight!”
Dale A. Duncan, another longtime friend, honored Kevin’s enduring impact, sharing, “Everybody should be as lucky as we all were to have a friend like Kevin Boylan… He was the quintessential Irishman — loud, quick-witted, and full of song. May the road rise up to meet you.”
Kevin is survived by his devoted wife Janet, and his children Shannon, Joe, and Clancy. He also leaves behind a circle of family and friends who adored him deeply and whose lives he forever changed through his warmth, loyalty, and generosity.
In an especially heartbreaking coincidence, Kevin’s nephew, Michael Baur, has also passed away. The Boylan and Baur families are united in grief and love during this painful time.
As the staff of Kevin’s Bar closed their doors briefly to mourn their mentor, their message rang clear: “Kevin is the reason Kevin’s will always be Kevin’s.”
The music may quiet for now, but Kevin’s voice, laughter, and legacy will echo in the hearts of all who knew him. He was, and always will be, one of the great ones.