Carl Marion Thomas (previously Butts), affectionately known to many as "Joker," passed away unexpectedly on July 24, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas, at the age of 59. Carl was born in Wichita on March 17, 1967, to the late Carl Wayne Thomas and Lynda Kaye McCoy.

A Life of Adventure, Stunts, and Stories

Growing up, Carl’s family logged plenty of miles on road trips across the country, visiting memorable spots like Carlsbad Caverns and Disneyland. But his true passion for adventure really started to shine during his childhood in Drumright, Oklahoma, where he and his lifelong best friend, Tom Hansen, spent their youth exploring every creek for miles around. Together, they built forts and treehouses for full-scale battle reenactments—eventually trading in wooden swords, metal trash can lids, and broomstick bicycle jousting for BB guns, bottle rockets, and what could be called "extensive research into the laws of physics" (which was often an excuse whenever something didn't go as planned!).

Carl’s love for motorcycles started early, leading to plenty of wild stories. As a kid, he took his sister for a ride on his bike, jumped a creek, and almost lost her—luckily pulling her back on by her hair just in time! In an odd twist of fate, they managed to repeat the exact same hair-grabbing rescue with his best friend later on. Outside of his wilder pursuits, Carl’s youth was packed with diverse interests, including soccer, martial arts, playing the saxophone, and breakdancing.

A Big Heart, Proud Biker, and Closet Nerd

Throughout his adult life, Carl brought that same energy and loyalty to everything he did. Professionally, he worked as a commercial truck driver alongside his brother-in-law, Tony, and later spent over two decades as a Field Operations Supervisor specializing in commercial and industrial exhaust system maintenance.

Known for his quick wit, generous spirit, and fierce loyalty, Carl was always ready with a joke, a funny story, or a helping hand. Combining his passion for motorcycles with his giving nature, he never missed a toy run. He loved sharing these rides with his grandchildren, creating unforgettable memories and passing his generous heart down to future generations. He also loved taking the grandkids out on his motorcycle down Thunder Road, through the tunnels on East Central, and through downtown Wichita. The tunnels were the perfect spot to rack his pipes and give the kids a thrill. Carl made sure the kids got all the excitement of the ride and all the safety of Grandpa. He also frequently reminded us all that "loud pipes save lives"—and even if you couldn't see him coming, you could certainly hear him a mile away!

When he wasn't on two wheels, Carl loved spending time outdoors fishing. One of his favorite spots was Harvey County West Park—where his wife grew up fishing—a special place they shared together many times over their 20+ year relationship. He also enjoyed casting a line at Harvey County East Park and the K96 fishing lakes on the north side of Wichita.

When it came to sports, Carl was a football fan who loyally cheered on the Kansas City Chiefs and the OU “Boomer Sooners”. On quiet evenings, he had a deep appreciation for fantasy, epic adventures, history, and unique stories, enjoying shows like Lord of the Rings, Spider Noir, The

Umbrella Academy, Skinwalker Ranch, and The Why Files. Meanwhile, his music tastes centered more around icons like Ozzy Osbourne, Motley Crue, and Metallica. Outside, he was a die-hard biker, but inside, he was a proud nerd—and his family loved him all the more for it.

Family & Legacy

Carl is survived by his loving wife, Paula "LaLa" Thomas; his daughter, Krista Milburn, her husband Jason, and their children Destiny and Elijah; stepdaughter Cady Hampton, her husband Marcus, and their children Caden and Bryson; stepdaughter Heather, and her children Ryan, Adrian, Garrett, Elijah, and Gabriel; stepdaughter Jessica, her husband Jason, and their children Tyler, Kyle, Riley, Christopher, and Oliver; his sister, Shannon Thomas and her husband Tony; his brother, Ronnie Pruett; his brother, Tom Hansen and his wife Michelle; and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Wayne Thomas and Lynda Kaye McCoy; his stepmom, Rosie Thomas; and his grandmother and adoptive mother, Geneva Butts.

Cremation has taken place and no formal visitation will be held.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE & WAKE

● Date & Time: Saturday, August 8, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

● Location: The Jukebox, 1300 S. Seneca St, Wichita, KS

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS

Contributions to assist with final expenses may be sent to Carl's wife, Paula "LaLa" Thomas:

● Venmo: Paula-Thomas-144

● Cash App: $jokerloveslala

We invite you to please share a memory, funny story, or positive comment about Carl below. We would love to share these memories together and focus on the joy that Carl brought to all of our lives.