Robert Kenneth Thompson Sr.

Robert Kenneth Thompson Sr., 85, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2015 after a long battle with kidney cancer. Born in Yuba City April 16, 1929 to Frank and Ivy Thompson he was a lifelong resident of Yuba City. His youth friends called him 'Bump' and his grandchildren knew him as 'G-pa'. He taught school at Central Gaither for 36 years beginning in 1954. A graduate of Yuba City High in 1946 he joined the Army and served from 1946 through 1948. On his return he attended Humbolt State to study forestry. In 1950 he returned to the Army for a short stint at the beginning of the Korean War. On a deferment he was able to return to his wife and two children. He earned his teaching credential at Sacramento State College while starting his teaching career. He enjoyed carpentry, camping, hunting and fishing with his boys and friends. An avid sports enthusiast he coached his sons in little league and supported their sport pursuits closely. Known as a "Honker" through and through he was a regular supporter of Yuba City Honker sports for years. He was honored for being on the football 'chain gang' for 35 years. Following the Kings, 49'ers and Giants kept him connected to his sports' love throughout the years. Bob had a soft and caring heart for everyone. He participated in the Red Cross for years, making many support trips around the country. For many summers, he worked for Cal-Can as a fieldman in the peach industry. His outdoor interests led him to participate in building part of the Tahoe Rim trail. An avid gardener he supplied the local neighbors with fruits and vegetables every year. Survivors include a son, Robert Kenneth Thompson Jr (Jan) of Yuba City; a brother, Stuart Thompson (Sally) of Chico; grandchildren Jack Thompson of Carson City, Heather Stoddard (Bubba), Kenneth Thompson (Angela) of Yuba City and Kevin Thompson (Audrey) of San Clemente, California. He has four great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, wife of 60 years Shirley Thompson; a son, Raymond Scott Thompson formerly of Carson City, Nevada; and a brother, Frank Clifford Thompson Jr. A Celebration of Life will be held in February coordinated through Ullrey Memorial Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Red Cross or Yuba City High School Athletics.