Kenneth Raymond Thompson Jr.

Kenneth R. Thompson Jr, died May 31, 2014, after a long, heartbreaking battle with cancer. Ken was born June 5, 1943 in Chicago, IL to Kenneth Raymond Thompson and Frances B. Svec. He was preceded in death by both parents and infant son, Kenneth Raymond III. Ken is survived by wife Eileen; three children: Robert (Lisa), Dain (Denise), and Robin (Neil Cromwell); four grandchildren: Kelsey, Chandler, Tyler, Payton; and four siblings: Kathy Dahnk, Barbara Lewis (Robert), Larry, and John. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Ken went to Notre Dame High School in Niles, Illinois and then went on to graduate from Marquette University in Milwaukee Wisconsin, with a BS in Business Administration. There he met and married Eileen Kampine, the love of his life. They celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary just days before his death. As a youth, Ken was an athlete, participating in many sports, even playing against Jim Grabowski of Green Bay Packer fame. He won trophies and also academic awards. He was proud of being an Eagle Scout. He was renowned in family circles as a math whiz and a formidable opponent in cards. As years passed, Ken became more a spectator, especially enjoying his children's and then his grandchildren's escapades and successes. In 1983, Ken left his career in the insurance industry in Milwaukee and the family moved to Arizona, settling in Pinetop/Lakeside where Ken worked as a Real Estate Broker for many years. He loved life in the White Mountains and did not want to leave and " go gentle into that good night."(Dylan Thomas) Ken graced us with a legacy of strength, love, and a joy of life. He also instilled the value of a strong work ethic. His family felt privileged to be able to provide devoted care to the very end. Remember, you have been richly blessed so that you can be a blessing to others. The family would like to note special gratitude to the medical community, especially Drs. Moffat and LeSueur, and Hospice Compassus. Special thanks to Fr. Dan Daley of St. Mary's. In Lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to St. Mary's or Hospice Compassus. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00AM Thursday, June 5, 2014 (Ken's birthday) at the St. Mary of The Angels Catholic Church, 1915 S. Penrod Lane, Pinetop, Arizona.