Thomas Henry Poffenberger

Thomas Henry Poffenberger (28), who came barreling into this world on May 22, 1996, took his football and went home to heaven on August 1, 2024. He was preceded in death by his Popsicle angel, paternal grandmother, Sharon Poffenberger as well as his larger than life maternal grandfather, Louis Horning. Those that are mourning his loss are his parents, Ben and Sonja Poffenberger, sister, Kelly (Noah) Davidson, brother Scott (Molly) Poffenberger, brother Matthew Poffenberger, sister, Kimberly (Mayson) VanHoose, paternal grandfather Linley Poffenberger, and maternal grandparents Sandi (Rick) Opp as well as adoring nieces and nephews and many supportive family and friends. 

Thomas was a 2014 graduate of Bethel High School. Incredibly intelligent, he enjoyed frustrating his teachers and making his classmates laugh. He challenged both the education and law institutions. He worked as a framer for Stoltz Construction and did odd jobs through temp agencies. His adventurous spirit took him to California in the Navy where he became a plank owner of the USS Ralph Johnson. He often spoke of returning to San Diego one day. 

Family members were his closest friends and he was proud of them. He would protect them in public but aggravate them in private. His sensitive side would show through his thoughtfulness, whether sending a special gift from California to his mom or just making sure he was not a burden. He resisted praise, often found listening to conversations, and interjecting a snarky comment at times. He was compassionate, often found taking the family dogs on walks making sure each one had their turn. As a child, he could be seen riding his bike with his Roxy running beside him. He was bold and fearless, tempting fate several times where the Lord spared him from death or disability. 

When he wasn’t hoopin’ at Smith Park or running down SR 571, he would be working out in the gym to his beloved rap music. He molded his body through work outs and clean eating. Carbs rarely passed his lips. His skills in the kitchen with flavor combinations and techniques were inspiring. Ever a faithful Dallas Cowboys fan, no one could dispute his knowledge of the game. In high school he scored a defensive touchdown. He followed basketball and football player careers from high school to pros, with the Golden State Warriors as his favorite team. 

This loyal, private man will be sorely missed by those who knew him. Private graveside services provided by Morton and Whetstone, officiated by Pastor Libby Martin, were held on August 5, 2024 with family and friends at Dayton Memorial Gardens, laid to rest next to his great uncle.