Erwin James Bires

Erwin "Erv" J. Bires

Erv died peacefully on September 7, 2025, at the age of 90. He was born on June 2, 1935, to James and Jesse Bires. Raised on a farm with his brothers and sisters in New Lisbon, Wisconsin, he learned the values of hard work and compassion that would guide him throughout his life.

Erv was the husband of Kaye (nee Bubolz) for 30 years. He was previously the husband of Joanne (nee Soiney) for 24 years. Loving father of Kim Bires-Jenich (Marty) Jenich, and Jill Hurst. Stepfather of Mark Hanson, Marie (Dan) Hobert, and Ashley Hanson (Kevin) Butry. Grandfather of Aaron (Katie) Hurst, Benjamin (Missy) Hurst, Elijah (Bianca) Hurst, Jordan (Kristina) Jenich, and Graham (Alli) Jenich. Step-grandfather of Anna Clair Crowley, Madeline Crowley, and Sidney Butry. Great-grandfather of Caleb, Isaac, Leo, Violet, Harper, Rory, Charlotte, and Adeline. Dear brother of Bill (the late Darlene) Bires; brother-in-law of Marge (Arvin) Vande Zande, John "Jack" (Corky) Bubolz, Tom (Candy) Bubolz, Robert "Bob" (Marsha) Bubolz, Gary (Mary) Haag, and Lori (Gayland) Hainstock. His extended family and numerous friends, who were touched by him, will also hold his memory dear.

Preceded in death by his parents, James M. and Jesse M. (nee Southworth) Bires; brother, Vernon (the late Dorothy) Bires; sisters, Betty (the late John) Wass and Shirley (the late Duane) Anderson and (the late Ken Edmunds); and brother-in-law, Mike (the late Barb) Bubolz.

His life was one of service and dedication, beginning with his time in the US Marines. Erv's entrepreneurial spirit shone through when he started Associate Typewriters, which later became part of the Gordan Flesch Company. His love for community and service found a perfect outlet when he drove a school bus for the Arrowhead Hartland School District, a role he often referred to as his dream job.

An avid fisherman, Erv cherished the moments spent with his brother in the tranquil waters of Canada. His love for the outdoors extended to deer and turkey hunting, where he found peace and camaraderie. Erv's green thumb was evident in his beautiful garden, a testament to his nurturing spirit. He was a dedicated husband, father, and uncle, providing life-changing experiences and adventures with animals, camping, and vacations. He dearly loved his dogs, Buffy One, and Buffy Two, and enjoyed riding and caring for several horses over the years. He loved hosting parties, complete with barbeques, generous hospitality, lots of family and friends, and all the animals and pets.

Erv's involvement with the Vagabond Ski and Social Club, Karl Schurz Memorial Park Association in Stone Bank, Centime Nocturn Dance Club, West Bend Dance Club and the Clowns of Waukesha, showcased his zest for life and his commitment to bringing joy to others. He was a man who embraced life with both arms, whether on the dance floor, skiing down a slope, or bringing smiles as a clown.

Erv's passion for adventure took him across Europe with his ski club and on motorcycle rides on his gold wing, each journey filled with stories and laughter. His love for camping was yet another avenue through which he explored many places and made lasting memories.

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