Nickolas Allen Plooster, 73, of Leavenworth, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on February 11, 2026.

Nick was born on August 17, 1952, in Mitchell, South Dakota, to Julius and Lorraine (Peters) Plooster. He was raised with strong Midwestern values of service, hard work, and loyalty—principles that guided him throughout his life.

He earned a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science and went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Army, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (LTC). As part of the Armored Cavalry Division, he demonstrated steadfast leadership, discipline, and commitment to the mission and genuine care of those under his command. His military service was a defining chapter of his life and a source of deep pride.

On November 14, 2001, Nick married the love of his life, Debra C. Plooster, at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and devotion.

Nick was a devoted father to his sons, Ryan Scott Plooster and Adam Justin Plooster. He was also a loving and supportive stepfather to Miranda Jill (Holsted) Garlock and her husband Matthew Thomas Garlock; Toby Sanders Holsted and his wife Heidi Marie (Landry) Holsted; Whitney Blake (Holsted) Chaney; and Rachel Elizabeth (Delacruz) Kesler and her husband Jonathan Douglas Kesler.

He was a proud grandfather to Logan and Cellek Plooster; Joshua, Autumn, and Madeline Garlock; Augustine and London Kesler; Cassidy and Atlas Chaney; and Eli, Landry Kate, and Maggie Anne Holsted. His grandchildren were a tremendous joy in his life, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with them.

Nick is also survived by his brother, Dennis Plooster and sister-in-law Sandi; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Sandra Carole (Plooster) Feltman, as well as his parents, Julius and Lorraine Plooster.

Nick will be remembered for his strength of character, quiet leadership, deep love for his family, and unwavering sense of duty. He lived a life marked by integrity and service, leaving behind a legacy that will continue through the many lives he touched.

A private family memorial will be held Monday, April 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Funeral services follow at 1:30 p.m. at Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery, with a procession departing Davis Funeral Chapel at 12:45 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather afterward at the Leavenworth Local Hotel from 3:00–5:00 p.m.