Donald Thompson

Donald R. Thompson Sr., passed away Tuesday, September 20, 2016 at his home in Jacksonville, FL. Don was born on April 15, 1933 in Flint, MI., the second son and last child of John and Ethel (Miller) Thompson. Don’s younger years were spent between Flint and Sault Ste. Marie, MI. When he entered high school the family settled in West Branch. He was active in football, basketball and baseball. Chosen co-captain with best friend Erik Kaas for his senior football team. Don graduated with the class of 1951. After many short term jobs Don entered the USN in February of 1952. The Navy took him to many states and schooling. His final stint for the Navy was an assignment to Norfolk, VA, where he served as an electronic technician. There his primary duty was flying with combat aircrews practicing anti submarine drills over the Atlantic Ocean. He completed his Navy enlistment March 15, 1956. Completing his Navy tour Don had many jobs that took him around the world, including a three year post in the Philippine Islands. In 1965 Don was back in the states working at a surveillance project for government. At that time he earned a Bachelor of Business degree from Southern State College in Arkansas, graduating Cum Laud. When that job was completed Don moved his family to Saginaw, MI. During this time he was a jobber selling specialty chemicals and lighting. In 1978 Don bought 40 acres in Clare, MI. where he met his wife Katherine Archbold House. Together they established Thompson Sales, Inc. After a successful 30 years in business, Don retired at age 78. Don retired to Jacksonville, FL and became a "Sunbird", returning to Michigan to get out of Florida's hot sun. Don is survived by his wife Katherine, children Donald Thompson Jr. (Tuyet), Regina Hale (Kirk), Richard House (Tamara), Robyn House-Guettler (Mike) Michael and William House, Grandchildren, Donald Thompson III (Heather), Erik Thompson (Jenessa), Christopher Thompson (Martha), Corey Hale (Heather), Katie Hale, Trisha House, Leah Hernthiasong (Andrew), Relin House, Great grandchildren, Saree, Grace, Leander and Violet,. his Godchildren, John Boyd, Amanda Boyd, Ava and Allen, his "favorite" niece, Susan Thompson Hull and her family, and special friends, Sharilyn Boyd along with Art and Edna Robinson. Don was predeceased by his parents, son, John Thompson and brother, Dr John Thompson. A memorial service will be held December 3, 2016, at 11:00 A.M. at the Clare Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers or gifts the family would be grateful for donations made to: Haven hospice. 8301 Cypress Plaza Dr, Jacksonville, Florida 32256. On-line guestbook at www.stephenson-wyman.com

Donald Thompson

April 15, 1933 - September 20, 2016