Keith Edward Thompson, 84, passed from this life surrounded by loved ones at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita. He was born in Hutchinson, Kansas, on June 18, 1941, to Elma (Ketchum) and George Thompson.
Keith graduated from St. Teresa’s Catholic School in 1959 and joined the United States Army in January 1960. He served for 6 years, many of which were spent in Frankfurt, West Germany. During his honorable service, Keith was recognized with the Good Conduct Medal and Expert (Carbine) Badge, reflecting his outstanding discipline and proficiency. Once he returned to Hutchinson, he then went on to work for Cessna Aviation, Consolidated Manufacturing, and AGCO Corporation, retiring in 2004.
In 1979, he met Jacqueline “Jackie” Pierson. They combined their families and married in 1981. Together, they enjoyed 43 wonderful years of love and marriage. Keith was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
In his life, Keith was a man of many hobbies. He loved to hunt, fish, and participate in a local black-powder club. He was best known for his “mountain man” persona, always sporting a long beard, a big smile, and a well-loved pair of moccasins. Keith enjoyed tending to his vegetable garden and supporting Kansas sports teams of all kinds. Keith was a hard worker and a good friend. He was always willing to lend a hand to help with a project.
He is survived by his: wife, Jackie; sons, Brian (Sylvia) and Patrick (Ashley); stepchildren, Jason (Shannon) and Janelle; grandchildren, Fabian, Shelby, Dominic, Paige (Orion), Kiersten (Austin), Nick, Rylie (Preston), Allie, Ryan, Cooper, Ellissa, Trevor, and Emeri; great-grandchildren, Sequoia, Carter, Olivia, Luna, Onyx, Leon, Maverick, Lynnox, and Callie; siblings, Mike (Denise), Pat (Patty), Sharon, Lynne, and Raelene as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins, and dog, Dolly.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, William Miller.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life to honor Keith will be held on Sunday, November 23rd, at the Rhapsody on B (3 West Avenue B in Hutchinson). Friends and family are invited to a come-and-go gathering from 2:00 – 4:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Dillon Nature Center Foundation, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.