POUGHKEEPSIE – City firefighter Tim “Timbo” Gunther died in the line of duty after fighting a fire in Poughkeepsie in May of 2015. On Thursday, the collaboration between Timbo’s union, IAFF Local 596, and Zeus Brewing of Poughkeepsie paid tribute to the fallen firefighter.
A recap of Gunther’s death can be found here.
In recent years, the union representing Poughkeepsie’s professional firefighters, IAFF Local 596 has teamed with Jeremy Phillips and Zeus Brewing of Poughkeepsie to craft a limited edition beer in Timbo’s honor. According to Phillips, a portion of the proceeds is sent to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation in honor of the 21-year veteran firefighter, Timbo Gunther.
On May 5th, firefighters from several local departments gathered on the rooftop of Zeus for an early release of the “3rd Alarm Italian Pilsner” created by Zeus Brewmaster Justin Surgess. “It’s basically a pilsner that has been dry-hopped a little bit,” Phillips said. Thirty barrels of the special beer were brewed at Zeus in about 35 days. Phillips said the beer is available in kegs and cans, with several local establishments ordering kegs of the special beer to sell in their bars. Of the 30 barrels, 100 cases of cans are made available in 4-packs of cans, at $15 per 4-pack.
Poughkeepsie firefighter and Local 596 President Nick Bucher called the collaboration “very special”. Jeremy and Zeus have been with us since day one and every year they have produced a beer that would have certainly garnered Timbo’s approval.” With professional firefighters from neighboring departments gathered for Thursday’s release, Bucher added “The firefighter brotherhood has stood together and become even stronger with Timbo’s passing. Our brothers and sisters have supported us at every turn and it’s really special.”
Phillips said sharing the proceeds with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation didn’t require much thought. “Timbo is a hero that gave his life to save others and never hesitated. If we can work with the Poughkeepsie firefighters to provide funds to help the families of other fallen firefighters, we will be there without hesitation.” Bucher praised the support of Zeus, saying “The owners and staff of Zeus have been our rock and their dedication to Timbo’s memory is nothing short of amazing. Our firefighters can’t begin to express our thanks to the people at Zeus.”
The limited-edition beer has historically sold out within days. To inquire about availability, contact Zeus at 845-320-4560.
