Tommy Thompson

Tommy E. Thompson, age 75 years, formerly of Niles, Michigan died peacefully on Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Hope Hospice in Fort Myers, Florida following an extended illness.

He was born on March 11, 1942 in Niles to Elton and Helen (Hardebeck) Thompson, and was graduated from Niles High School in 1960.  He attended Lake Michigan College prior to joining the United States Army in 1966.  Lieutenant First Class Tommy Thompson was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for outstanding meritorious service as an assistant intelligence officer in the 23rd Artillery Group’s headquarters battery in Vietnam.  He was also awarded the Air Medal for meritorious service while participating in aerial flight in support of ground operations.  He was honorably discharged as a Veteran of the Vietnam Era.

On return to Michigan, he continued his education at Ferris State College, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant.  He owned and operated the “Tom’s Foolery” college bar in Mount Pleasant for many years before selling it and moving to Florida.  In Florida, he enjoyed the weather, played tennis, and was employed in sales for several firms.

Tommy always enjoyed visiting with friends, and maintained many long-distance friendships over the years.

In August of 1968 in Alma, Michigan he married the former Jan Batson with whom he celebrated last year the forty-ninth anniversary of their wedding.

Surviving family includes his wife, Jan Thompson and their sons, James Bradley (& Beverly) Thompson of LaBelle, Florida, Brian Thompson of Lehigh Acres, Florida, and Eric Thompson of Cape Coral, Florida; a daughter, Nicole (& Robert) Gagne of Grand Blanc, Michigan; three grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren; and Tommy’s brother, Gary (& Linda Lewellen) Thompson and sister, Linda (& Frank) Zavitz, both of Niles; many nieces and nephews, and a wonderful circle of great friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elton and Helen Thompson.

Private arrangements to fulfill Tommy’s wishes were completed in Florida.  Obituary information in Niles was provided by the Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home.

Contributions in memory of Tommy may be made to the Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908, www.hopehospice.org; or to an organization of the donor’s choice.