Karl Thompson, of Niles

Published 9:14 am Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Jan. 8, 1940 — Oct. 22, 2017

Karl Richard Thompson Sr., on Oct. 22, 2017, entered into rest to be joined with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Dick and his “sweetheart” Margie are now hand-in- hand. Loved and admired by many, he was always known for lasting friendships and a strong family presence. His wish for everyone was that they would come to know Jesus as their personal Savior.

Dick was born on Jan. 8, 1940, in Huntington, WV. to Carl and Crystal (Meador) Thompson. At a young age, his family moved to the Niles area where he graduated from Niles High School in 1958.

He and Margie were married June 1, 1973, in Elkhart; but, made their home Kissimmee, Florida in 1982.

Together they built and nurtured a blended family with sons Rick (Glenda) Thompson, Kerry Thompson, Kristopher (Laurie) Thompson, Mark (Jacqui) Pedley, and son-in- law Bob Storlie. Their daughters include Kelli Storlie, Kristie (Maurice) Conley, and Tina Thompson. He considered himself dearly blessed to have 25 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He became a true expert in produce as he worked for several grocery stores in his youth, but Dick was most proud of the 18 years he was in management for Disney World where he received numerous awards for his exemplary leadership.

Surviving are his sister Norma (Harlan) Worden of Grand Junction, MI, John (Debbie) Thompson of Chicago, Garry (Patty) Thompson of Elkhart, and Kevin (Julie) of Kissimmee. He was preceded in death by sister Marilyn Gaideski and his two infant sons, Jamie and Stevie, and his parents.

A memorial service will be held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28, at Hope Community Church, 2390 Lake St, Niles, 49120. Fellowship will follow from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Please direct Memorial gifts to the ALS Association, P.O. Box 37022, Boone, IA 50037-0022 or donate on-line at alsa.org