Kevin Wayne Tarlton

Kevin Wayne Tarlton, 68, of Scott, Ohio, passed away February 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, grit, humor and a life he lived exactly the way he chose.

Kevin worked in Defiance at International Truck Sales and Service, as a diesel mechanic. He proudly called the village of Scott, Ohio home for nearly his entire life. Kevin showed pride and commitment to his community by being a firefighter, village maintenance and councilman.

Kevin was truly an outdoorsman at heart- loved hunting, fishing, and was happiest when surrounded by nature. He had a mechanical mind that could fix or "rig" just about anything- if something was broken, he'd find a way to make it work again. He enjoyed demolition derbies and tinkering in the garage. He also was an avid antique glass collector, enjoyed antique tractor pulling and a gun enthusiast- always appreciating the craftmanship and history. Social life with his buddies was always a highlight for him- swapping tall tales.

Stubborn most of the time and known for bending the rules, he lived life on his own terms. Yet beneath that tough exterior was a man that never knew a stranger and loved his family deeply.

He will be remembered by his story-telling, mechanical ingenuity, the love of the outdoors and his deep roots in the Scott, Ohio community. His presence will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

Kevin is survived by his wife, Deborah (Delno) Tarlton of Scott; his children, Joe (Renee) Tarlton of Scott and Kendra (Dave) Wessell of Ohio City; his five grandchildren, Marcus (Courtney) Tarlton, Olivia Tarlton, Abigail Tarlton, Luke Wessell and Nya Wessell; a brother, Scott Tarlton of Scott; an aunt, Irene "Susie" (John- deceased) Thomas of Van Wert; and two nieces, Kandi Stripe and Mandi Dangler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Miriam (Akom) Tarlton; and a sister.

Services will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. Visitation will be from 3:00-6:00 pm with a memorial service immediately following at 6:00 pm with Pastor Terry Martin, officiating.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Services have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, Ohio.