
Thomas Scott Porter left his earthly body on July 25th, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 83 years young. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arlo Hiram and Florence Arline (Speaks), his siblings Jeanine Curtis and Kenny Hess, his daughters Monica Weller and Tammy Wann; son-in-law Richard Whitaker and granddaughter Amanda Whitaker. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 53 years, Helga Lieselotte (Behrendt); his children: Klaus (Alona) Mulvihill, Deborah (Ricky) Medina, Bernice Blackman, Rachelle Whitaker, Danielle (Shawn) Behrman and Scott (Cherie) Porter; his siblings: Gary (Anna) Porter, Shirley (Tucker) Johnston and Jane (Dave) Fitzgerald; 23 grandchildren,15 great-grandchildren and a plethora of nieces and nephews.
Tom lived most of his life in Colorado Springs, CO. He spent much of his career as a Maintenance Manager, where he was responsible for overseeing the upkeep and repairs of buildings such as Shephard’s McGraw Hill, The Union Printers Home and Liberty Heights. His efforts ensured these facilities were always in optimal condition, contributing to their smooth operation and tenant satisfaction. At the dawn of the personal computer era, he was a true pioneer – teaching himself to build computers from the ground up, mastering both hardware and software. Long before the internet, he ran bulletin board systems (BBS), creating spaces for connection and learning. This then led him to accepting a position in IT in 1995 with Blue Cross Blue Shield. This opportunity took him and Helga to Burnsville, Minnesota for 13 years. Once they retired, they moved back to Colorado Springs to be close to their children.
Tom had many interests throughout the years. He loved to play the banjo, guitar and harmonica, which brought immense joy to him and created unforgettable memories for their family as they gathered around to listen and sing along. He loved working with his hands. His creativity was evident in the furniture, wall sconces, bowls, and guitars he built, which adorned his home and were cherished by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved to tell stories and just spend time with his loved ones.
On Friday, August 8th, there will be a Celebration of Life from 2:00pm – 5:00pm at the Inn at Garden Plaza, 2520 International Circle, 1st Floor Activity Room. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pikes Peak Hospice, 2550 Tenderfoot Hill Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
I will miss him so much. Especially at Christmas time and family gatherings. He was like a dad to me. So many memories! Playing the banjo, singing, storty telling, joke telling driving me and Danielle around and Especially the Ballon festival. I am so sorry for the loss your family must be feeling. Heaven gained an amazing soul.
I am forever grateful to have had you in my life “dad”. See you on the other side❤️