Russell Wayne Thompson

December 6, 1924 - April 9, 2020

Russell Wayne Thompson, 95, of Bloomington, passed away at Stonecroft Health Campus on Thursday, April 9, 2020. He was born in Bloomfield on December 6, 1924, to Hawk and Pearl (Strickland) Thompson. After his graduation from Bloomfield High School in 1942, Russell joined the Army in 1943. Because he took business courses in high school, he was assigned as a railroad company clerk before being shipped overseas to fight in World War II. He was part of the Allied invasion at Omaha Beach and served until the end of the war in Europe. After returning to Bloomfield, he met again his elementary-school friend, Jeannette Dilley, and they were married on April 10, 1948. Throughout their life together, the Thompsons traveled for work and pleasure, taking Caribbean cruises and touring the U.S. with their Airstream travel trailer. They shared 53 years together until Jeannette passed away suddenly in October 2001. Russell experienced a varied work career, always excelling due to his many talents, outgoing personality, and positive attitude. He first worked in an accounting office in Bloomfield and then became a salesman at his brother’s appliance store. In 1954, Russell opened his own business, Thompson Furniture Store. When Russell’s father-in-law passed away, he took over the 117-acre farm, which raised purebred Black Angus cattle to exhibit at county, state, and national shows. He closed the furniture and carpet business after 20 years and moved to Bloomington. Known as a respected business and sales person, the Summit National Life Insurance Company asked him to become an insurance representative and team leader. He was named the company’s “Man of the Year” in 1976. After an eight-year tenure, Russell believed it was time to retire. Within the next year, however, Indiana University’s Sigma Nu fraternity asked him to become the fraternity’s janitor. Soon respected and well loved by the young men, he also filled roles as “grandfather” and “counselor,” motivating many to remain at the University, graduate, and become good citizens. In recognition of his positive influence, the late Herman B. Wells, Indiana University Chancellor, inducted Russell into Sigma Nu as an honorary member, and Russell was known as “Man of the House” in 2005. At the urging of Russell’s medical doctor, he left Sigma Nu in 2005, at the age of 80. Russell was a member of the Bloomfield United Methodist Church and the Bloomfield Lodge No. 84 Free and Accepted Masons. Upon moving to Bloomington, he joined the Fairview United Methodist Church and Monroe Lodge No. 22. Russell is survived by sons: Douglas (Sharon) Thompson of Homer, Michigan, and Mark (Nancy) Thompson of Bloomington; grandchildren, Melissa (Dennis) Stuller, Sherry (Michael) Bradshaw, Adam (Tracy) Thompson, Heidi Cornell (David Stinchcomb), Bill (Suzie) Abrams, and Christy Thompson (Hunter Robson); 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter; sister, Wilma Ferguson of Santa Claus; sister-in-law, Barbara Hanauer of Bloomfield; plus numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Russell was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and one sister. In his later years, Russell’s interests included IU men’s basketball, gardening, eating strawberry ice cream, and spending time with family. In 2012, Russell recorded many life stories for his family’s enlightenment. He said, “I have lived a great life and have no regrets.” Russell Thompson will be missed by his family and friends. Memorials may be made to Sigma Nu Fraternity at Indiana University or the Fairview United Methodist Church. Arrangements are entrusted to Lester Jenkins and Sons Funeral Home in Bloomfield. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.