Brett A. McCarthy, 43, of Burlington, passed away Friday, May 29, 2026, in Johnson Creek.
Born in Burlington, Wisconsin, on April 30, 1983, he was the son of Robert and Pamela (nee Welch) McCarthy. His early life was spent in Burlington, where he graduated from Burlington High School. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary Catholic Church in Burlington.
Brett was one of those rare people whose presence made life brighter. Known for his quick wit, infectious laugh, and legendary bear hugs, he had a way of making people smile even on difficult days. Living with cerebral palsy never defined him; instead, he was defined by his joy, his friendships, and his ability to bring people together.
He loved peanut butter cups, dominated card games with the skill of a shark, and proudly competed in bowling at the Special Olympics. He was an avid sports fan of all Wisconsin teams. Brett especially loved being in the water, where his laughter and splashing brought joy to everyone around him. He also had a need for speed. Whether he was flying across the snow behind a snowmobile on a sled or grinning from ear to ear while riding in the bucket of a skid loader, Brett delighted in anything that moved fast. The bigger the thrill, the bigger the smile on his face. From his days as a dedicated hallway monitor in high school to becoming the life of his group home, Brett formed lasting connections everywhere he went.
More than anything, Brett will be remembered for the love he gave so freely. He touched countless lives through his warmth, humor, and resilience. To know Brett was to be hugged fiercely, laughed with often, and reminded that happiness can be found in the simplest moments. His absence leaves a space that can never truly be filled, but his spirit will live on in the memories of all who loved him.
Brett is survived by his parents, Bob and Pam McCarthy; sisters, Kelly (Andre Poremski) McCarthy and Cassi (Nick Thimesch) McCarthy; grandmothers, Theresa McCarthy and Veida Welch Tenhagen; best friend, Jeremy Meixner; nieces, Bobbie, Fenyx and Solveida; along with 11 aunts, 2 uncles, 23 cousins and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, John William Welch and John Robert McCarthy.
The family would like to thank his caregivers, Nur, Ibrahim, and Fuad.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation or the Special Education Program at Burlington High School.
Services for Brett will be held at 12 noon on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home. Relatives and friends can gather with the family on Thursday, June 4th, at the funeral home from 10 am to 11:45 am. A private burial will take place at Burlington Cemetery.
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory
625 S. Browns Lake Drive
Burlington, WI 53105
(262) 763-3434
www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com
