Kevin Devine Obituary
Kevin was born on September 28, 1970, in Southfield, Michigan. He died on January 8, 2025, a victim of the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California.
Wonderful son of Margaret and the late Michael Devine.
Dear brother of Nancy Devine Murphy (Lawrence), Patrick Devine (Karine), and John Devine.
Uncle of Allison, Nicole, Michael and Claire Murphy; Matthew, Camille and Leah Devine.
Godfather to cousin Nick Devine and niece Claire Murphy.
Beloved by his many Uncles, Aunts and Cousins.
He attended St. Regis Elementary School and graduated from Brother Rice High School in Bloomfield Hills in 1988. He received his Bachelor's degree in English from the University of Michigan in 1992.
His childhood home was a lively and active one with kids, dogs, wonderful neighbors, family, friends and parties (there were many: holiday, birthday and spur-of-the-moment). Kevin loved having so many people around and didn't need to be the center of attention to have a great time. He recently remarked that his neighborhood and house on Robinhood Drive, "was the best place for a kid to grow up."
After college Kevin moved to NYC where he worked in the entertainment industry as an Agent's Assistant. His time there led to a job working backstage for "The Late Show" with David Letterman.
He moved to California in 1996, where teaching became his primary job. Kevin was dedicated to his students. He had a lot of empathy for any student who struggled in school, and made a special effort to connect to those who were at-risk or learning-disabled. Most recently, he worked at a high school near his home in Altadena, a tight-knit, friendly community. Some students said he was their favorite teacher.
Kevin stayed connected to the entertainment industry as an Extra on TV and movie sets. He enjoyed the celebrity sightings and plentiful meals provided (a perk, as he loved good food!) With his healthy, clean-cut look, was often cast as a member of the military or as a police officer.
He was a fan of all things Michigan and proudly wore his sports gear for the Detroit Lions, Tigers and U of M. Because he received so many smiles of recognition, he surmised "There must be a lot of people from Michigan in California" - his unofficial poll.
Whenever he came home, he made sure to visit some favorite spots - Ann Arbor, Zingerman's Deli, Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, Franklin Cider Mill, The Motown Museum and of course everyone's favorite ice cream store, Stroh's.
He liked to read, loved to learn and frequently used a library's resources to research landmarks and places he lived or visited and places he hoped to visit. He was curious and could converse on a variety of subjects. To say he loved animals, especially dogs, is an understatement and they returned the affection.
Kevin was an old soul, and always a kid at heart. He was sensitive, spiritual and loving. Even as a child, he had a special warmth and respect for his grandparents beyond his years. He had a great memory and a wonderful sense of humor, but Kevin's greatest legacy was his kind and giving heart.
A Memorial Mass for Kevin will take place on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:30AM with visitation starting at 10:30AM at St. Regis Catholic Church, 3695 Lincoln Road, Bloomfield Hills.