Business Owner, Firefighter Remembered as 'Amazing Person'

Editor's note: Looking back on 2012, there were a lot of ups and downs experienced by the Port Washington and Saukville community.

While the good times are often easier to remember, it's important to also take note of the tragic events that mold the community and bring its members together — and to never let go of the memories of those we have lost, who meant so much.

This series of Top 10 stores in Port Washington and Saukville takes a look at some of the most memorable moments here this year. The top 10 stories were chosen based on qualifications such as the number of readers on an article and the amount of Facebook "likes" or "recommendations" it had, as well as community impact — among other considerations.

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The No. 10 story remembers Tim Karrels, a Saukville firefighter and owner of Doc's Darts & Pool Supply in Port Washington who passed away in May.

News of his death shocked and saddened countless friends and family members, who remember Karrels as a happy-go-lucky, funny guy with a positive approach to life.

Kevin Gwidt, a former Port Washington firefighter, was Karrels' fire instructor at Lakeshore Technical College and also knew him from time in the field. Karrels had told Gwidt that he wanted, more than anything, to be a firefighter, Gwidt said.

"A true fireman has to have heart and has to have courage," Gwidt said. "Tim had both more than others. I lost touch with him. I have been off the department since 2007. I am sure that when the next alarm sounds, Tim will be riding along."

Read more of Karrels' story here.