Kevin Patric Mann, of Bull Shoals, Arkansas, passed away on March 25, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, at the age of 70. He was born on October 30, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, to William and Kathleen (Kohlsdorf) Mann.
Kevin made Bull Shoals his home in 2007, after relocating from New York. He married the love of his life, Lea Ann Miller, on August 7, 2010.
Kevins career began at a young age in the hospitality industry, working as a bartender at his fathers establishments in Rockaway Beach, NY. He often joked that he tapped his first keg at the age of five. While he was known as a skilled bartender, Kevin was much more than that. His magnetic personality and genuine warmth drew people in, and if Kevin liked you, you certainly knew it. His presence and charm were unparalleled.
After moving to Bull Shoals, Kevin continued his work in the bar and restaurant industry, managing several local spots including the 178 Club, the Fish Bar, the 19th Hole at Rivercliff Golf Course, and Beacon Point. Kevin always went above and beyond just serving drinks-he connected with people, made them feel welcome, and created a sense of community wherever he worked. Outside of bartending, Kevin also excelled as a caterer and was known for his incredible cooking. Meals prepared by Kevin were anything but ordinary-he elevated every dining experience to something special.
In addition to his culinary and hospitality talents, Kevin was an avid golfer and bowler. He was a proud member of Rivercliff Golf Course and served as the manager of the Bull Shoals Lanes Bowling Association. His love for sports extended beyond just participation-he enjoyed the camaraderie and connection that they brought. Kevin was also deeply involved in his community. He served as Past President of the Hoevel-Barnett Post #1341 VFW, President of the Arkansas District 2 VFW Auxiliary, and was an active member of the VFW Riders Group.
Though not a fisherman, Kevin loved spending time on the lake, soaking up the sun with friends and family whenever the opportunity arose. His zest for life, his generous spirit, and his ability to make every person he met feel like family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Kevin never met a stranger, and his big heart touched the lives of countless people. He leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and joy, and he will be fondly remembered by family, friends, and the many people whose lives he impacted.
Kevin is survived by his wife, Lea Ann Mann of Bull Shoals, AR; daughters, Christine (Tommy) O’Toole and Caitlin (Trevor) Chapman; grandchildren, Tommy and Jack O’Toole and Aliyah Chapman; brothers, Edward (Lucretia) Mann and Brother William Mann,FSC; sisters, Florence Howell and Patricia Kellenberger; a number of nieces and nephews and his Bull Shoals community. He will forever be missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family would like to thank Hospice of the Ozarks and Highland’s Oncology for their awesome care of Kevin.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters, Eileen Black and Kathleen Tansi.
A Celebration of Life for Kevin will be 11:00 am, Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Hoevel-Barnett Post #1341 Bull Shoals, AR, with members of the post officiating. Please wear your brightest colors or Irish attire to the service to honor Kevin.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Ozarks.
Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services – Bull Shoals, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.
Click here to visit the Kirby & Family Funeral & Cremation Services website and sign the guest book.
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