William K. Thompson, 67, of Midland, passed away on March 6, 2019 at his home surrounded by family. He was born to the late James and Mildred (Ostrow) Thompson on November 19, 1951. On December 17, 1982 he married Betsy Bronson, and they had 36 wonderful years together.
William worked as a 4th grade teacher at Siebert Elementary retiring in 2010. He was a member of Trout Unlimited, Midland Amateur Hockey League, and MEA.
William is survived by his wife, Betsy, his children; Joshua, Matthew, James, Emily, David, 3 grandsons, 5 granddaughters, 2 sisters and 1 brother.
A Memorial Service will be held at Smith-Miner Funeral Home on Saturday, March 9, 2019, at 11:00 am with Pastor Sue Hand officiating. Friends may visit with the family at the funeral home on Friday, March 8, 2019 from 5-7 pm and on Saturday from 10 am until the time of service.
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider MAHL equipment fund or the Midland Humane Society.
On line condolences may be left at smithminer.com.
Condolence Messages
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Mike Skinner
I was saddened to hear the news about Bill’s passing. I always enjoyed my conversations with Bill anytime I ran into him at Siebert Elementary School. My kids didn’t have Bill as a teacher but I remember my second son telling me he wished he had Mr. Thompson as a teacher because all his friends thought he was great….he obviously had a way of connecting with his students. God bless Bill and his family.
Sherry&Ted Skinner
There is nothing to say, to “make things better”. Just remember he was a teacher….and that alone made him special……all those young students he helped develope in many ways.
Jeff Beckwith
Because of Bill I learned to fly fish
Because of Bill I spent a lot of money on fly fishing
Because of Bill I was shown how to tie several intricate knots
Because of Bill I need him to tie my knots
Because of Bill I appreciated the beauty and joy of standing in a river
Because of Bill I lost more flies than the fish I caught
Because of Bill I learned patience in the stream
Because of Bill at the end of the day he had to wait on the bank for me
Because of Bill being claustrophobic I learned not to insist he sit in the backseat
Because of Bill I sold my Colorado for a Ram so that he might sit in the backseat
Because of Bill I was comforted when I was sick
Because of Bill I read books I never would have ventured
Because of Bill I now know the names of more than a hundred restaurants in Traverse City
Because of Bill I sometimes had coffee brought to the door of my room at Jefferson
Because of Bill I drank a lot more coffee
Because of Coffee I learned a lot more about Bill
Because of Bill I came to call CC my second home
Because of Bill I learned to laugh and laugh and laugh and enjoy life
Because of Bill I had someone with whom to follow the Wings
Because of Bill I learned not to speak highly of the Wing’s goalie
Because of Bill I learned never to invite him on Thursday evenings
Because of Bill I watched a 65 year-old play hockey like a kid
Because of Bill I saw what a devoted husband, father and grandfather can be
Because of Bill I gained a friend that can’t be replaced
Because of Bill the three amigos are now down to two
Bill, my friend, I will sorrowfully miss you, but rejoice you every time I step into the river.
Denise Potvin
It was so great to see the both of you at the farmers market several years ago. I am so sorry for your loss. Bill was a wonderful teacher and humanitarian.Know that the he will be missed by all. Sincerely, Denise Potvin Grand Rapids
Emily (VIncent) Packer
Remembering and laughing at memories of Spring Break in Florida when Bill horrified me by telling me there was seaweed in my ice cream. I also remember a backyard BBQ at the house when he told me not to be embarrassed about listening to “oldies” over pop music. Though I was never his student, he invited me to hang out in his class on Volcano Day and I got to watch all the big kids erupt their homemade volcanos. Thank you, Bill.
Ellen Urda
Sorry I used to roll my eyes at your dumb jokes, little brother, but I thought I’d be listening to them for many more years. And yes, you did look good in that hat.
Dree Stryker on behalf of the Stryker- Korn family
Dearest “Mr. T”
Thank you so much for “changing the world” by molding the lives of our children at such an impressionable age! They are better human beings for having been nurtured by you. I used to love the reading days when they could bring their lunches and sit on the floor with their friends sharing their books … and giggling.
We will very fondly remember meeting your family at your father’s funeral, which seems like just yesterday.
We will certainly be honored to contribute to both of the funds in your name because we know how passionate you were about hockey (GoWings) and bless you for caring for the little ones at the Humane Society.
Brad Vander Vliet
So, so sorry for your loss. Bill was a great friend and colleague at Siebert for many years. May you find comfort of the precious memories Bill shared.
Doug and Lisa Vincent
I’ve been reflecting on Bill all day today with wonderful memories of family Solstice get-togethers, a wonderful family vacation in Florida, and Red Wing discussions. The most incredible man whose love for his family and passion for positively impacting students, including our kids, was unmatched.
Betsy and kids, our sincere condolences.
The Vincent and Spink families.