Richard Jon Thompson of Lansing, Michigan, 68, passed away June 29, 2021 in New Port Richey, Florida.
Rick was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He began a lifelong career at Meijer in April 1972, working his way to become produce manager. Along the way, Rick made many friends and instilled his work ethic and dedication in his children, grandchildren and those around him. He retired in November 2014 after 42 years of hard work, and moved to Florida in 2019 with his beloved wife, Kim.
Rick’s dedication to his job was surpassed only by his love of music. Rick, known as Rock Dog to many, had a true passion for music, which he shared with everyone around him. Whether he was playing the drums in a band, most recently the Young Guns Band, or DJ-ing at a local Lansing spot, Rick was able to connect with the crowd and play something for everyone. Rick took his passion for music to Florida in retirement, setting up drums in the garage to continue to rock out. When he was taking a break from drums, Rick took full advantage of the year-round Florida sunshine, playing pickleball and relaxing at the beach.
Above all, Richard loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Kim; daughter, Mandi (Jerry) Rehm; son, Nicholas (Myrece) Thompson; grandchildren, Gannon Rehm, Marlie Rehm, Noelle Thompson, and Benjamin Thompson; brother, Craig (Mary) Thompson; sister, Betty Ann (Michael) Nelson; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Ann and Richard Thompson Sr. and younger brother Mark Thompson.
A celebration of life will be held on October 9, 2021 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm at Mt. Hope Presbyterian Church in Lansing, Michigan. Should friends so desire, a memorial may be made to Mt. Hope Presbyterian Church or the organization Notes For Notes (https://www.notesfornotes.org/) which provides youth with access to music instruments, instruction and recording studio environments so that music may become a profoundly positive influence in their lives.
Kim Baker
September 27, 2021, 9:16 pm
There will never be words to describe how much rick meant to dave and i.
Debra (Jupin) Boterf
September 27, 2021, 9:30 pm
I always enjoyed meeting up with Kim and Rick. I looked forward to spending some time with them after they moved to Florida. I remember the last time we saw them in Michigan, Rick very graciously helped my Dad get to the car after breakfast in Dimondale. That’s the type of guy he was. I plan to stay in contact with Kim when she is back down in Florida. I’m so sorry he has died, it was too soon. Love to the family.
Glenda Osterhouse
September 27, 2021, 9:55 pm
Dear Kim and the Thompson family. My heart is heavy for all you guys. The love Rick had for you was obvious and with his passing has had to leave a huge hole and sadness in you all. I’m so sorry for your loss. He lived a very happy life . Love to all, Glenda
Elizabeth NELSON
September 27, 2021, 10:41 pm
Our hearts are still breaking because you are so missed. Thinking of you everyday and know you are at peace, no longer suffering and enjoying playing the drums with your buddy Rick playing sax, if only we had the time to say goodbye, but know in our hearts that God needed you more for his Band in Heaven. Love and miss you, your forever sister, Betty Ann and Mike
Laura Linebaugh
September 28, 2021, 1:20 am
I never met your father but knowing you and knowing the “apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” I am sure he was a pretty special guy. Hugs, honey. You will always have the memories.
Donna Williams
September 28, 2021, 7:03 pm
My heart hurts so much for Kim & Family. Rick was such a great guy with so much love for his family. His smile was contagious, along with his love of music.
He be missed so much .
You guys are in my prayers 🙏🏻
Linda
September 29, 2021, 5:02 pm
We had so much fun with Kim and Rick over the last year and a half. He loved pickle ball and FL. He did amazing job on their new home. Rick was always smiling, and loved keeping busy. We will surely miss him
Jim and Linda Barber
Matthew and Sandra VanStratt
October 9, 2021, 7:19 pm
Our deepest condolences are extended to the Thompson family. Kim, you will be in our hearts and our prayers. Rick was such a fun-loving man and so devoted to his family! We consider it a blessing to have known Rick. So happy that we were able to reunite our friendship when you two moved to Florida. Rick appeared to be very dedicated to Kim and his children. Nothing was more important to him. Rick had a contagious smile and anyone around him could feel his love! You will be missed, my friend. Heaven has gained a music-loving angel!
May God Bless,
Matt and Sandy VanStratt
Patricia Langenbacher
January 18, 2025, 4:12 am
I am reading this now. The love we have and will always have for Rick is so deeply felt from both of us. Memories, so many great times. Rob grew up with Rick. The friendship they had not only made them there for each other but a truly lasting joy they had in music. Kim, my best friend in my whole life. What can I say to explain the hurt the happiness and joy of being blessed to have eachother. Rick, you have made my husband a very happy man knowing you and sharing his most wonderful moments in his life. It was Wood Rose band that made so many people happy. I love you Kim.