William (Bill) Edward Thompson

William (Bill) Edward Thompson, 84, died Friday, Dec. 3, 2021 at his home in Vero Beach, Florida.

Born to Walter and Glenda Thompson on Jan. 31, 1937, in Coshocton, Ohio, Bill graduated from Warsaw High School in 1954 and attended Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio. After school, he joined his father in the family grocery business, while serving in the Army Reserve. In 1969, Bill moved to Newcomerstown, Ohio and managed their IGA store with his brother, Wayne. Bill was a respected leader in the grocery industry. He spent nine years on the board of trustees for the East Central Ohio Food Dealers Association. He was named the Outstanding Independent Operator by “Progressive Grocer” magazine in 1991 and voted Grocer of the Year in 1996 by the East Central Ohio Grocers Association.

Bill married Carolyn (Cookie) Clark of Newcastle, Ohio on July 19, 1970, and raised three children together. He was a devoted husband and father who always made time for school games and family dinners.

Bill was a well-recognized man in town and always quick to help others and support the community through youth sports, the public schools, church ministry and social services. He was named Newcomerstown’s Favorite Son in 1997 by Newcomerstown Tourism Unlimited. He was an active member of Christ United Methodist Church, the Newcomerstown Lions Club and a lifelong – often suffering – Cleveland Browns and Ohio State fan.

Bill retired in 2004 and moved to Vero Beach, Florida, where he quickly became involved in the community. Bill was an active member of Christ by the Sea United Methodist Church and volunteered his time for many local charities and fundraisers. He enjoyed the warm climate and played golf and tennis as much as possible. He looked forward to his Monday poker nights with the guys and tried to attend many of his grandchildren’s school activities and graduations.

Bill is predeceased by his father and mother, Walter and Glenda Thompson; and brother, Wayne Mortine.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Thompson of Vero Beach; his three children, Wanda Joy (David) Snyder, Bill (Erin) Thompson II, Kate Trefz; his brother, Weldon Mortine, and sister, Carol Marino; grandchildren, Aaron (Amy) Snyder, James Patrick (Jocelyn) Snyder, Allison Snyder, Elizabeth Thompson, Ashley Thompson, Braden Trefz, Brooklyn Trefz and Cannon Trefz; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Service was held in Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sea Oaks HELP (Homeowners & Employees Learning Program) and mailed to 8811 Highway A1A, Vero Beach, FL 32963 or to Christ by the Sea United Methodist Church at 3755 Hwy A1A, Vero Beach, Florida, 32963.

Category: Obituaries