Rupert Thompson

Kerry Thompson Through the years.

Kerry Thompson I don't know very much about my dad's childhood. He never spoke about it and I sometimes wonder what it was like and what are the things that shaped him into the man he was. My mom would sometimes say he was a momma’s boy. I think there might have been some truth to that. At home he was often very quiet but at other times he was full of life and comedic, sometimes out of nowhere he would start reciting poetry. He was definitely a disciplinarian in some sense and saw to it that we did things like polish our shoes and wake up promptly at six am to get ready for school. No doubt these were remnants of his military days but beyond that he was relatively laid back and left most of the heavy parenting to my mom. I can’t recall him ever raising his voice, using a curse word or losing his temper. My dad definitely had a taste for the finer things in life but was never pretentious. He loved dressing up, wearing ties and the best leather shoes. He often worked in a service role among high ranking officials and seemed to love every minute of it. He received many accolades through the years for his dedicated service to organizations like the JDF, USAID and UNDP. He was a charmer and a networker way before social media existed. It seems everywhere we went there would be someone calling out Tommo or Tommy as he was affectionately referred to. He loved talking on the phone and entertaining. He was very proud of his Johnnie Walker collection and was always eager to offer a drink to a guest. My fondest memories are from childhood days because dad and I grew estranged in my 20’s when he made the decision to separate from my mom. It’s a decision which he regretted terribly and which sadly robbed us of having a closer relationship in my adult years. I’m a lot like my dad though in many ways and he taught me some key life skills such as how to make dumplings, tie a Windsor knot, whistle and how to use a CB radio. These things make me smile and help me remember the best times. I’m sad you’re gone dad, rest in peace and know that you are loved always. Over and out Moonbeam. Your daughter, Kerry.

Kirk Thompson The man l am is somewhere between who you are and who you raised me to be. I do the best I can, that's what you taught me. How I remember you will always be in a mythical sense: So jovial - people were always smiling to see you So strong - a grip to break a man's hand So stoic - always cleanly groomed with a dash of old spice. I'll always want to make you proud, uphold that special bond between father and son. You suffer no more! I struggle wishing you were here and knowing it's not possible. It was 'overwhelming' hearing of your passing, I know there will be sad faces but also happy memories from times past. I remember mommy asking you one evening to go walking up and down our street with her. You paused, looked at her and said "Take 3 sticks, put 1 at the top of the road, 1 in the middle and 1 at the bottom." I saw the confusion on her face "For what?” she exclaimed. You answered, "Anyone trouble you, run to the nearest stick." We simultaneously burst out in laughter. I loved your comedy! I never told you this to your face but I cherish it as I cherish you and I can proudly tell anyone I was raised the right way. I love you and I'll see you again one day. Your son, Kirk.