The community is mourning the loss this week of Bartlesville Police Department Lt. Robb Fouts, who passed away Sunday following a brief illness.
A 24-year veteran of the department, the soft-spoken police lieutenant was known for his easy going temperament, humor and ability to see the good in everyone. Described by friends and coworkers as “honorable,” “humble” and “fair,” Fouts leaves a legacy of leadership, friendship and service to the community.
“Lt. Fouts was a beloved friend and brother in blue who led his patrol shift with valor and fairness,” said BPD interim Director of Operations Capt. Rocky Bevard. “He was a trusted mentor to his officers. He led by example and gave his all to the Police Department and the citizens of Bartlesville. Losing Lt. Fouts so suddenly is tragic for everyone, and he will be missed immensely.”
Fouts, 53, began his career with the BPD as a reserve officer in 1994 and took over the animal control officer post in August 1996. He was hired as a police officer in September 1997, serving as a patrol officer and field training officer. He was promoted to sergeant in July 2002 and earned the rank of lieutenant in 2008, where he served as the top supervisor on “Adam” shift, or the night shift, until his death. In 1999 and 2002, he received the “Buckle Down Top Cop” award, and was voted “Police Officer of the Year” in 2000.
Adam Shift sergeants Randy Tayrien and Kelley Thomas say they will miss their boss — but most of all, they will miss their friend.
“Lt. Fouts was a supervisor that cared more for the officer that worked under him than himself,” Thomas said. “He had a great sense humor, which made him fun to work with. He carried his authority with humility. I will miss Lt. Fouts — my immediate boss and one of my closest friends.”
“Lt. Robb Fouts was an exceptional leader and an outstanding human being,” said Tayrien. “He was known for helping anyone who needed it. His wisdom, humor and friendship will be truly missed.”
Fouts is survived by his wife Holly Fouts, daughters Shianne, Sierra and Savannah Fouts and Megan and Taylor Crawley, his parents Leland and Linda Fouts and sister Stacy Taylor, of Coffeyville, Kan., mothers-in-law Marcella Lindholm, of Bartlesville, and Pat Lindholm, of Scammon, Kan., and grandmother Ruby Medley, of Coffeyville.
A Go Fund Me site has been established to help the Fouts family. Sal’s Donuts raised more than $5,000 for the family during a recent fundraiser, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office will donate half of the concession proceeds generated during its “Cops and Rodders Car Show” on Oct. 6.
“Lt. Fouts was a valued member of the Bartlesville Police Department, the City of Bartlesville and our community as a whole,” said City Manager Mike Bailey. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Holly, his daughters and his family during this difficult time. We will miss Lt. Fouts’ dedication to service and his commitment to Bartlesville and the safety of our citizens. But most of all, we will miss Robb.”
A Celebration of Life service for Fouts is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, and Highland Park Baptist Church in Bartlesville. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the National Law Officers Fund.