Ted Harold Edward Thompson

Ted (Harold Edward) Thompson died suddenly, though peacefully, at home on June 5th 2023, at age 72. His death is deeply mourned by his beloved wife, Mary Shirley-Thompson, his three dearly loved children Jessica, Sandra, and Katie, and his cherished grandchildren Frankie, Rudy, and Alaina. He is survived by his brother Tim and sisters Robin (Bob), and Tracy.

Over the many years of his work life he built tires, drove cabs, worked with troubled teens in a group home, was Executive Director of the local Big Brothers organization, was a massage therapist, a first responder in the oil and gas fields in northern BC, and did summer camp maintenance. Ted loved his family, music, CFL football, history, hugs and back scratches, telling stories, and God. Ted was avid about music; he sang and played guitar, keyboard and drums (including the big bass drum in the local pipe band). He loved bluegrass and old-time country music best, with rock and roll, folk, and jazz/blues close behind, and could tell you who played which instrument and sang which part, or did the original version of, hundreds of songs. He deeply valued being a member of the worship team at Riverside Baptist Church where he regularly played drums and often sang “special music” solos (and would often jam with a friend on drums and piano before and after the services). He was almost fanatical about CFL football, particularly the Ottawa Red Blacks, though he was known to cheer for the Ti-Cats upon occasion. He was passionate about his family, even when he was making them listen to the most sentimental and sad bluegrass songs, and they would complain and roll their eyes. He was proud of them and wanted nothing more than those he loved to be healthy and happy. He had a wicked and irreverent sense of humour, not always appreciated by those to whom he directed it, but always meant to lighten the mood or provide a laugh. He gave the best hugs, making you feel safe and loved. Ted will be profoundly missed and always remembered as he rests in the arms of his Lord.

Ted’s funeral will be at Riverside Baptist Church on Saturday, June 17th at 11:00am. Internment will follow at the Langford Cemetery with a reception at St. Ambrose Anglican church beginning at 12:30pm.

Rather than flowers, and because Ted loved music so much, please consider donating to the Children’s Foundation of Muskoka, Ted Thompson Music Fund: www.childrenofmuskoka.com.