• 5800 7th Ave. • Kenosha, WI 53140 • 262-657-1000

	Fair with Haze   31°
	S 8 mph
	Forecast

We lost a dear man and hero on Dec. 20, 2011. Bud was a much beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many.

We all knew him as an incredibly strong, hard working man of many talents, a master mason who could build anything with old world craftsmanship, a mentor and teacher, a gardener who created beautiful landscapes and lush flower beds, a championship golfer and an organizer of golf events during the early years of The Gainey Ranch Golf Club. More importantly to him, he was dedicated to his wife & family and especially proud of his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed and nurtured many friendships in Wisconsin and Arizonia. His warm heart and love knew no bounds, as he would do anything in his power to help those he knew, regardless of their stature in life. He truly lived the Golden Rule and taught us many life lessons by his example.

Bud's journey began Feb. 9, 1922, one of six children born to Clarence and Cora Thompson on a humble tenant farm in Stanley, Wis. After 8th grade, necessity required him to work in the Civilian Conservation Corps. A few years later his brother, Gil, helped him find a job and move to Kenosha, Wis. At age 20 he volunteered to join the Army and became a member of the Rangers, an elite group modeled after the British Commandoes. Bud served in the 4th Battalion, a "Darby's Ranger", named after his commanding officer, Colonel William Darby. Bud survived three years of rigorous training, many dangerous beach landings, battles and hardships. Sergeant Thompson earned the Bronze Star for heroic achievement in action as well as many other medals and a Presidential Citation. After the war he met the love of his life, Vera Angelina Suriano, and their love prospered through 65 years of marriage.

Bud is survived by his wife, Vera; three children, Pamela Cady (Dene), Candace LaMacchia (Robert), Gregg Thompson (Diane); grandchildren, Michael Thompson, Christina Thompson, Robbie LaMacchia, Eric Thompson, Elena Thompson and Elizabeth Thompson as well as a sister, Bonnie Glaeser and a brother, Joseph Thompson.

He is preceded in death by his brothers, George, Gil, and Don Thompson.

After 35 years as a renowned mason contractor in Kenosha, Wis., Bud and Vera relocated to Scottsdale, Ariz., where he continued his craft. He was a charter member of The Gainey Ranch Golf Club and became known as "the Commissioner" for his skill at organizing the men's golf events. He was well known and loved at the club, in his neighborhood and bible study group for his efforts to help others, create fun and enriching experiences and his "go for the gusto" enthusiasm. He delighted many of us with his endearing poems of love and faith. He was a proud member of Toastmasters, the Kenosha Country Club, the VFW and the Gainey Ranch Golf Club. Our hero will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him. Part of him will carry on through his family, and all of our lives have benefitted immeasurably from his love, thoughtfulness and humor.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Vera Thompson.

Visitation with the family will be on Friday, Dec. 30, 2011 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kenosha Country Club, 500 13th Ave., Somers, WI (for GPS use Racine, WI 53403), followed by a 1:15 p.m. service and military honors.