Donald (Don) James Thompson Sr., 94, of Middletown, passed away peacefully on April 4th, surrounded by his loving family. Don was a proud veteran, a true patriot, and above all a deeply cherished father, grandfather, and friend. A devoted family man, he found his greatest joy in the people he loved — whether he was crabbing, cooking a meal to bring everyone together, or building something with his skilled hands. He took pride in caring for others in the ways he knew best.
A talented carpenter by trade, Don could fix or create just about anything and was always ready to lend a hand. He also treasured his nightly coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts, where he and his friends gathered to share laughs and, in their own way, solve the world’s problems. A lifelong and enthusiastic fan of UConn men’s and women’s basketball, he rarely missed a game and cheered on his Huskies with pride. He will be remembered for his warmth, craftsmanship, sarcasm, wit, and the steady, loving presence he brought to all who knew him.
Don was born in Middletown, CT, the son of Albert (Ted) and Bertha (Roberts) Thompson. He was predeceased by the love of his life, Sheila (Devaney) Thompson; his son, Gary Thompson; his brother, Norman (Skip) Thompson; and his sister‑in‑law, Gayle Thompson.
His legacy lives on through his daughter Vicki Taft (Craig) of Middletown; his son DJ Thompson (Maura) of Higganum; and his daughter‑in‑law Debi Thompson (Gary) of Higganum. Don, lovingly known as “Bop,” was adored by his eight grandchildren: Jamie, Chris, and Ryan Shukis; Brooke, Morgan (Grant), and Gary Thompson Jr.; and Donny and Danny Thompson; as well as his two great‑grandchildren, Selena and Kaden Shukis.
He is also survived by his brothers Ted Thompson of California and Jim Thompson (Gayle) of Arizona; his sisters Pat Sunderland (Wes) of Maine and Annette Bradley (Tom) of Clinton; his sister‑in‑law Ann Thompson of North Carolina; and many nieces and nephews.
Don graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School, Class of 1950, and immediately joined the United States Air Force at the start of the Korean War. He served his four‑year enlistment in England with the 3rd Motor Transport Squadron, a group he remained connected to for the next 60 years. England was where he met his beloved Sheila and welcomed his first child. After returning home, he continued to grow his family with two sons. Following his service, Don completed a veteran’s carpentry program at Vinal Regional Technical School and later joined the Carpenter’s Union. He went on to work for ACMAT Corp., where he dedicated 34 years of skilled craftsmanship.
Don’s life was defined by love, loyalty, hard work, and the simple joys he shared with those around him. His presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Saturday, June 27th at 10 a.m. at the State Veteran’s Cemetery, Middletown.
The Lastrina Family Funeral Home, 491 High St., Middletown, is in charge of arrangements.
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