THOMPSON, JR., Kenneth Raymond (Ken)

Owens Livingston Mortuary, Show Low, Arizona Kenneth Raymond Thompson Jr., of Lakeside, Navajo County, Arizona peacefully passed away, surrounded by his loving family, following a lengthy illness on May 31, 2014 at his home in Lakeside, Arizona. Ken was born on June 6, 1943 to his parents, the late Kenneth Raymond and Frances B. (Svec) Thompson in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois. 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. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 06/06/2014 Kenneth R. Thompson Jr. died May 31, 2014, after a long, heartbreaking battle with cancer. He was born June 5, 1943, in Chicago, Ill., to Kenneth Raymond Thompson and Frances B. Svec. He was preceded in death by both parents and infant son Kenneth Raymond III. Ken went to Notre Dame High School in Niles, Ill., and then went on to graduate from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis., 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 of 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. Ken is survived by his wife, Eileen; three children: Robert (Lisa), Dain (Denise) and Robin (Neil Cromwell); four grandchildren: Kelsey, Chandler, Tyler and Payton; and four siblings: Kathy Dahnk, Barbara Lewis (Robert), Larry and John. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. The family would like to note special gratitude to the medical community, especially Drs. Moffat and LeSueur, and Hospice Compassus. Special thanks to the Rev. Dan Daley of St. Mary’s. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to St. Mary’s or Hospice Compassus. Owens Livingston Mortuary - White Mountain Chapel of Show Low handled arrangements. Those who have special memories and would like to send private condolences or sign an online guest book are invited to visit www.owenslivingstonmortuary.com.