Kent A. Poast, age 72, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, at AngelsGrace Hospice in Oconomowoc, WI. On the night he left us, the winds howled as if nature itself was guiding him home—a fitting farewell for a man who believed in the Great Spirit and the deep connection between life and the natural world.

Kent was born September 15, 1953, in Madison, WI, to Kenneth and Ruth Poast. He grew up on the family farm in Verona, where his love for the outdoors began—riding cows in from pasture, hiking the farm and the school forest, and playing basketball out in the barn.

Kent graduated from Verona Area High School and attended Madison Area Technical College (MATC), where he double majored in Accounting and Civil Engineering.

Kent worked alongside his father at their sand and gravel company in Waunakee before joining Madison Taxi Company. He married Deborah (Killerlain) Poast, and together they shared 20 years and raised three children: Kyle, Kaylin (Ryan), and Kelsey. Kent was immensely proud of his children and adored his five grandchildren: Tenley, Chase, Penelope, Scarlett, and Crew.

Kent’s life reflected his passions—hunting, fishing, camping trips with his best friend Rick Portz (Joyce), and time spent near Lake Superior. He loved American history, especially Native American culture, and admired Geronimo, the great Apache leader. Kent found peace and meaning in the wisdom of the Great Spirit and the belief in being one with nature.

Kent had a gift for storytelling. He loved sharing memories, and he told them slowly and thoughtfully—nothing was ever rushed with him. If you asked Kent a question, you knew you were in for a story, because for him, the journey was just as important as the answer.

Kent was quiet, observant, and humble. He was also charming and charismatic, a great listener, and always had solid advice. He loved country music and Cat Stevens, was a devoted Packers fan, and enjoyed listening to Brewers games on his radio. He had a fascination with the weather—he always knew the forecast. Kent enjoyed the simple things in life—like grabbing a coffee from his local Kwik Trip and taking in the world around him.

Kent is survived by his siblings: Judy (Dave) and their son Jesse (Kelli); Joe (Carla) and their children Jordan (Erica) and Amanda (Sean); and Tom (Sue) and their children Dusty (Zorina), Adam, and TJ. He is also survived by his best friend Rick Portz (Joyce). He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Ruth Poast.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Adam Van Huis and Nurse Practitioner Niki with GI Associates, as well as the compassionate staff at ProHealth AngelsGrace Hospice for their exceptional care.

A celebration of Kent’s life will be held in April; details to come.

He often reflected on this prayer that spoke to his soul:
“O Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the winds, hear me.
Help me walk in beauty and learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock.
Make me strong and wise, and ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes, so when life fades like the sunset, my spirit may come to you without shame.”

To view this obituary or leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Verona Chapel

220 Enterprise Drive

608-845-6625

Kent Poast

September 15, 1953 - December 18, 2025

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