Thomas Carl Poulter

Thomas Carl Poulter, 62, of Leavenworth, Kansas, passed away on September 5, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born on June 20, 1964, in Seattle, Washington, to Carl N. Poulter and Elaine Stavros Poulter. Tom graduated from Skyline High School in Idaho Falls, Idaho, in 1982. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Upper Iowa University, graduating summa cum laude.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army for 20 years on active duty and an additional 17 years in service to his country as a civilian. He was honorably discharged from active duty as a Sergeant First Class. During his distinguished military career, Tom served as a Military Police Officer and was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Fort Lewis, Washington; Fort Drum, New York; Mannheim, Germany; Guantanamo Bay; and Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

Following his honorable discharge from active duty, Tom continued his commitment to service as a civilian employee at the Fort Leavenworth Disciplinary Barracks, where he worked for 17 years until the time of his death. His dedication to the military community and his country remained an important part of his life and legacy. Tom was also deeply involved with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, serving as his VFW Post Commander for two years. His commitment to veterans and his willingness to serve others reflected the values that guided him throughout his life.

Outside of his military and professional life, Tom enjoyed many activities that brought him happiness and allowed him to spend time with family and friends. An avid NASCAR fan, Tom looked forward to the semiannual races at Kansas City Speedway. He especially enjoyed the weekends of camping, BBQs, fun, and fellowship with family and friends, while cheering on his favorite driver, Chase Elliott. Tom was an avid dart player for the last 30 years and was always ready for a challenging match. He enjoyed the competition, the camaraderie, and the friendships that came from the sport. He also loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Tom and his wife, Cindy, enjoyed taking numerous local and cross-country motorcycle trips with good friends, creating many cherished memories and adventures along the way. Tom cherished his family and the time they spent together.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy Shaw Poulter; his son, Cameron Davenport and wife Kaitlyn; stepdaughter, Angela Renfrow and husband Damian; stepson, Tommy Woodley; and six grandchildren (Emily, Jason, Hunter, Trinity, Natalee, and Olivia) all of Leavenworth, Kansas. He is also survived by his sister, Janice Brown and husband Mel, of Idaho Falls, Idaho; and his four nieces, Dayna Robertson, Michelle Brown, Gayle Contreras and husband Nick, and Diana Scarborough and husband Nick.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Elaine Poulter.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW Hall in Leavenworth on September 13, 2026, with the Patriot Riders and full military honors. Tom will be laid to rest at the Veterans Administration Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kansas. A second Celebration of Life will be held on December 5, 2026, from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm at 895 Wheatstone Dr in Idaho Falls, Idaho, allowing family and friends there to come together to honor his life and memory.

Tom will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his country, his commitment to veterans, his love of family and friends, and his adventurous spirit. Whether he was riding his Harley across the country, camping at the races, challenging someone to a game of darts, or simply enjoying time with those he loved, Tom had a way of creating lasting memories. His service, humor, competitive spirit, and generous heart touched many lives. His legacy will live on through his family, friends, fellow veterans, and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved him.