Dutton, MI –The Railtown Brewing Company and the greater Dutton community are mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Josh Tiemeyer, the brewery’s co-founder and head brewer, who passed away this week at the age of 45.
Tiemeyer was not only the creative force behind Railtown’s award-winning beers, but also a cherished friend, mentor, and fixture in West Michigan’s craft brewing scene. Known for his quiet humility, technical mastery, and unwavering dedication, Josh had been with the brewery since its founding in 2014. Under his leadership, Railtown grew from a small-town taproom into one of the region’s most respected and community-focused breweries.
“It’s hard to put into words what Josh meant to us,” said Justin Buiter, co-founder and longtime friend. “He wasn’t just our head brewer — he was the heart of this place. Every pint poured here carries his fingerprint.”
No details surrounding the cause of death have been released publicly, as the family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
Josh’s impact reached far beyond brewing. Patrons remember him not only for his beer but for his warmth, wit, and quiet generosity. He was the kind of person who remembered your name, your favorite brew, and always made time for a genuine conversation, no matter how busy things got behind the scenes.
“This is a devastating loss,” said frequent patron and friend Mike VanderMeer. “Josh helped build something special here — not just a brewery, but a place where people felt like family.”
Tributes have poured in on social media, with fellow brewers, industry colleagues, and loyal customers expressing their condolences and sharing memories of Josh’s deep love for the craft and the community he helped cultivate.
The taproom will remain open in the coming days, but management has announced they will be observing a moment of silence daily at 5 p.m. to honor Josh’s memory. Plans are also underway for a public memorial celebration to be held at the brewery next week.
Josh Tiemeyer is survived by his wife, two children, extended family, and countless friends who feel his absence profoundly.
Railtown Brewing Company has stated that it will continue operating in the spirit Josh helped create — rooted in passion, craftsmanship, and community — because that’s what he would have wanted.
He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in every pour, every story, and every shared moment over a glass he helped make possible.