William L. Thompson's Obituary
William L. "Bill" Thompson, 83, of Decatur, died Sunday, May 23, 2010 in Aspen Ridge Care Centre.
Bill was born July 25, 1926, in Decatur, the son of Dale and Gladys L. Peck Thompson. A U.S. Army Veteran, Bill was a mechanical engineer for many years, mostly in the Quad City's area, retiring in 1984. He was a member of the Catholic faith and was very involved with many civic organizations, especially Rotary and United Way, during his career. Bill was a professional Tenor Saxophone player who used his talent to pay for his college education. He coached little league for several years, loved wood working, playing golf, bridge, bowl, and work on antique vehicles. He married Mary Virginia May January 27, 1952 and she preceded him in death July 29, 1982. He then married Sandra A. Swain in August of 1984.
Surviving is his wife, Sandy; children: Rick Denise Thompson of Milan, Robert Thompson of Bettendorf, IA, Sandi Gadient of Coal Valley, Tom Thompson of Stonewall, LA, and Pat Joya Thompson of Huntsville, AL; grandchildren: Heath, Todd, Brett, Cameron, Brogan, and Celia Clare; great granddaughter, Rylee Ann; step son, William L. Nancy Mitchell of Cheboygan, MI; step grandchildren: Kasha and Kendra; step great granddaughter, Madison; one nephew, Jake Day and many friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Mary; and sister, Lorene Day.
Visitation will be from 10 until the service time at 11 am, Thursday, May 27, 2010 at the Moran & Goebel Funeral Home. Military rites will be conducted by the Macon County Honor Guard. Burial will take place at a later date in the Rock Island National Cemetery. Memorials gifts are suggested to the American Cancer Society.
The family of William L. Thompson is being served by the Moran & Goebel Funeral Home and Cremation Services, honored provider of Veterans Funeral Care, 2801 N. Monroe St. Decatur, IL.
What’s your fondest memory of William?
What’s a lesson you learned from William?
Share a story where William's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William you’ll never forget.
How did William make you smile?