Obituary of William Thompson

WILLIAM JOHN THOMPSON

May 11, 1940 - December 23, 2018

Beloved father of Carolynne Thompson, and cherished grandfather of Nicolas, Alexandre and Juliette Trepanier. Son of the late Kenneth W. Thompson and the late Florence M. Grand (nee Wilson); brother of the late Joan (Thompson) McMaster, Robert Thompson and Susan (Thompson) Rose. Step-brother of James Grand, John Grand, Robert Grand, Richard Grand, and Rosemary (Grand) Kinsey. Adored by many nieces and nephews, who affectionately called him “Uncle Bow,” and known as “Gromp” to his family and closest friends.

An avid outdoor adventurer, Bill was happiest on the water and under the great blue sky with family and friends, or restoring antique boats. Bill earned his B.A. in Political Science at Carleton University, followed by Graduate work at Queen’s University in Political Sociology, and in Marketing Management at the University of Waterloo. His interests and abilities in marketing and writing took him off the beaten track into some unique positions, including research for the CRTC on remote satellite distribution of television signals in remote and northern communities, press liaison to the Royal Commission on the Northern Environment, weekly columnist at the Globe and Mail, instructor at the University of Toronto, Sheridan College and Humber College, and account executive at both Ogilvy and Mather Canada and the Canadian Facts Company. These experiences informed a lifelong career as a marketing consultant. All who knew Bill appreciated his intelligence, his sharp wit, ironic sense of humour, his telling of tales and his strong, well-researched political opinions. A lover of challenge and debate, Bill’s eclectic interests and life experiences brought together friends and strangers alike through food, travel, story-telling, books, and music. All appreciated his generous and warm heart.

A celebration of Bill’s colourful and interesting life will be held at The Toronto Cricket, Skating and Curling Club at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 19, 2019.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you recall and share a unique story about Bill. Donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.  Condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.