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Lewis “Louie” Arthur Thompson
Born: 9/10/1946
Died: 9/4/2025
Age: 78
Community: Our Lady of Grace Parish, Hope, MI
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Lewis “Louie” Arthur Thompson
September 10, 1946 – September 4, 2025
Lewis “Louie” Arthur Thompson, 78, of Hope, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on September 4, 2025, with his devoted wife, Darlene, by his side.
Louie was born on September 10, 1946, in Battle Creek, Michigan. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army as part of the 82nd Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. In less than 17 months, he earned the rank of E-5 and was awarded two Bronze Stars for his bravery and unwavering commitment to those around him—a devotion he carried throughout his life with his family and friends.
Following his service, Louie built a long career with General Motors in Flint, Michigan. He began at Fisher Body Plant #1 (UAW 581) and retired in 1996 from Flint Metal Fab (UAW 659) as a third-shift millwright.
Louie valued the strong friendships he made during his years at GM. Louie enjoyed the simple joys of life. He loved popcorn and sweets, watching football, especially the Detroit Lions—and professional boxing matches. He and Darlene loved traveling together, camping in their motorhome
(especially in East Tawas), visiting casinos, and making countless memories along the way. He was proud to fly the American flag at his home, a daily reminder of the honor he carried from his service.
He treasured time with his children and grandchildren and was especially proud of his granddaughter Alexis, soon to graduate with her bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska, and his grandson Cody, who serves in the U.S. Marine Corps as an Infantry Marine.
Louie also loved bass fishing, hunting, and playing euchre—proudly known as the “best euchre player” among his friends. He was a Mason, a member of the F.O.E. #3655, member of Sanford American Legion Post #443, and competed in many bass tournaments over the years.
Louie is survived by his loving wife, Darlene Thompson; his children, Lewis Thompson Jr. and Tara Thompson-Simons; his stepson, Roger (Mary) Klemkosky; his grandchildren, Alexis Bonnie Simons and Cody Lewis Simons; and his step-grandchildren, Heather Johnson, Jaxon Johnson, and Amara Johnson.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Bonnie Thompson; his father, Raymond “Gabby” Thompson Sr.; and his brother, Raymond “Tommy” Thompson Jr.
Louie’s family extends their deepest gratitude to his wife, Darlene, for her unwavering love and care. Her devotion gave Louie many more years of joy, and for that, his children and grandchildren are forever grateful.
They also thank the medical teams at the VA Medical Center in Saginaw and MyMichigan Medical Center in Midland for their compassionate care.
We will miss Louie’s bright blue eyes, mischievous smile, unforgettable stories, and his uncanny ability to predict how every game would end. The world has lost a great man, but his love, strength, kindness, and example will live on forever.
A Vigil with Military Funeral Honors will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, at Ware Smith Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 West Wheeler Street, with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 18, at Our Lady of Grace Parish, 2500 N W River Rd, Sanford, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.
All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored the Thompson family has entrusted us with the care of their
loved one.
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Copyright © 2025 Direct Obits, LLC
| Visitation |
| Date: |
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9/17/2025 |
| Time: |
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4:00 PM |
| A Vigil with Military Funeral Honors will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, at Ware Smith Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 West Wheeler Street, with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m. |
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| Funeral Service |
| Date: |
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9/18/2025 |
| Time: |
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11:00 AM |
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| Location: |
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Ware Smith Woolever - Midland
1200 West Wheeler Street
Midland, MI 48640Get a Map to this location...
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