Neil P. Thompson

Mr. Neil P. Thompson, age 80, of Utica, passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2007, at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on March 31, 1926, Neil was the son of the late Percy and Mabel (Stramm) Thompson. He was raised and educated locally, and was a proud veteran of the US Army during World War II. On January 7, 1946 at Historic Old St. John’s Church, he married the former June M. Bertrand of Utica, and shared with her a loving and devoted union of 61 years. At one time Neil worked with the New York Central Railroad as a tower man. Subsequently, he was employed with the Poland Central School in the maintenance department and as a bus driver. He also held a position at Howard Johnson’s Motel in Albany. Upon his retirement, he made his home in Utica. Neil was a devoted husband, and a generous and good-hearted man. Blessed with a humorous and cheerful nature, he always put the needs of his family first, and was an exceptional role model for his grandchildren. Patriotic and public-spirited, he valued his memberships in The American Legion North Utica Post 229, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He also had a witty sense of humor, and as a ‘jack-of-all-trades’, he was able to fix anything. In his leisure time he was an avid card player and a golfer. He was also crafty with his stained glass creations. Neil enjoyed traveling, sailing on cruises, camping, visiting Myrtle Beach, and socializing on special occasions. He was a communicant of St. Anthony of Padua Church. Neil is survived by his wife June M.; his daughter and son-in-law, Cristol C. and Dennis S. Peppenelli of Utica; his son and daughter-in-law, Cortland C. and Ginnie G. Thompson, of North Syracuse; his grandchildren, Travis and Brenda Tabor, Lance Tabor and Kim Cooper, and Ryan C. and Stacy Thompson; and his great-grandchildren, Kayla, Matthew, Nathan, and Megan. Also surviving are his sister, Rosamond Pflanz of Utica, and his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and his brother-in-law, Richard Bertrand of Clayton, NY. Neil also leaves many special friends. The family wishes to thank all the skilled doctors and nurses who cared for Neil. Visitation will be held on Tuesday (today) from 4-6 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Neil’s Celebration of Life will commence immediately following the conclusion of visitation at the funeral home at 6:00 with the Rev. Anthony LaFache officiating. Interment will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Clayton, NY at the convenience of the family.

Neil P. Thompson

March 31, 1926 - February 17, 2007