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Robert Thompson - Class of 1952

Submitted by Pauline Rute Hall 1952 <Grammypgh@aol.com> on 10/Mar/2016
100.40.153.202

          Robert B. Thompson Jr. entered into rest suddenly at Westchester Medical Center on Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at the age of 81. The son of the late Robert B. Thompson Sr. and Evelyn Ronk Thompson, he was born in Newburgh, NY and was a 1952 graduate of Newburgh Free Academy. Robert proudly served his country in the US Army, and on July 6, 1961 he joined the City of Newburgh Police Department. He was one of the original K-9 handlers with his K-9 Kon-Tiki-Bell. He went on to become sergeant in charge of the tactical force, and was a trainer and supervisor for the K-9 unit. Robert was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for being shot in the line of duty in 1975, and was recently honored by the City of Newburgh Police and the K-9 unit when Officer Hinspeter’s K-9 was named “Bella” after Bob’s middle name. Bob was so proud of that honor. He retired as lieutenant (L1) after 35 years with the City of Newburgh Police Department. He was an avid Mets fan, enjoyed bowling and going to Pete’s Hot Dogs to hang out with the guys. His favorite pastime sport was watching his grandsons play baseball, soccer and basketball. Bob was a long time member of The First Congregational Church of Newburgh where he held the offices of deacon and trustee, He loved the Church on the hill, but most important was his love of God. His two favorite hymns were “Precious Memories” and “Prayer is the Key to Heaven, but Faith Unlocks the Door”. Left to cherish his “Precious Memories” are his wife, Linda, at home; his son, Michael Thompson and his wife Cathy of New Windsor; and his pride and joys, his two grandsons, his buddy Robbie and his pal Ryan. He is also survived by his brother William Thompson and his companion Judy Golden of Modena; and nieces. Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm on Friday, March 11 at Brooks Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Ave., Newburgh. A service will be held at 10 am on Saturday, March 12 at The First Congregational Church of Newburgh with Pastor Glenn Looney officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, New Windsor. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to The First Congregational Church of Newburgh, 44 Liberty St. WH, Newburgh, NY 12550.

 Message from Bobs son.  It is with a heavy heart that I must say that my father Bob Thompson passed away at Westchester Medical Center tonight with family and friends at his bedside. My Dad was a great man of integrity, pride and honesty and was a role model to myself and to many others. He talked the talk and walked the walk, never asking anyone to do anything he wouldn't do himself. He treated everyone with dignity no matter what the situation and was the most humble man I have ever known. He was born and raised in the City of Newburgh, served his country in the US Army and then proudly served his community for 35 years in the City of Newburgh Police Dept. As sad that I am of his passing, I am blessed to have had him as my father and for the time I was able to have spent with him. He was a great husband to my mom and a great father in law to my wife. He was the best Grandfather to his two Grandson's Robbie and Ryan and they made him so proud with their countless accomplishments. Please continue to keep my family in your prayers and thoughts. I want to thank everyone who has reached out to us, helped at the house, made dinners, and all the prayers. I want to thank my wife Cathy Finkel Thompson, Robbie Thompson, Ryan Thompson, Uncle Bill and Aunt Judy Golden for their support, thank you to Chief Dan Cameron, Kerry Ann Kienle Engle and Mike and Sue Henbury for being with my family during this trying time. Thank you to the nurses and doctors at St Lukes Hospital Newburgh, Mediflight crew #2 and to all the staff at Westchester Medical Center who gave the most incredible care and compassion to my father. Special thanks to my sister in law Judy McKevitt Finkel , Colleen A. Zlock , Michele Lysack and my neighbors Tom and Heather. If I have missed anyone, I'm sorry.

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