Joel Lawrence Thompson

Windham, ME and Medway, ME- Joel Lawrence Thompson, 58 of Windham passed away on December 24, 2019 to a glorious reunion, not only with God but also his Mom, Dad, Brother and Father-in-law, all whom he dearly missed.

Joel was born April 24, 1961 at Millinocket Community Hospital, the son of the late E. Arthur Thompson and June Irene (Cram) Thompson. He was the youngest of four boys raised in Medway and East Millinocket. Family was always first and foremost in Joel’s life however, it wasn’t long before friends, sports, music and cars took front and center. He loved many sports but mainly played baseball and basketball at Schenck High School from where he graduated in 1980.

Soon after high school graduation, Joel was hired by the local paper mill, Great Northern Paper, allowing him the comfort of his small-town community and family always close by. He held several positions over his 27 years of employment there, but most were in the steam plant. Ultimately, he became a licensed boiler operator and held that position until he was no longer able to work due to degenerative disc disease. He always cherished great memories with co-workers and all his managers taught him over the years.

In spite of all this; the job he cherished most was coaching. He was honored to be a mentor and make a positive impact on the youth of the Katahdin region. It didn’t matter if it was junior high, freshman or assisting J.V. or varsity basketball he thoroughly enjoyed it all! Most of the local kids lovingly referred to him as “Zeke.”

On December 10, 1982 (his grandmother Elsie’s birthday) he married Mary (Moffatt) whom he was “set up with” by his beloved cousin Joyce Marie McLain while in high school. Together, they raised two beautiful, loving daughters, Maghan and Danielle.

In 2010, life brought about a move to Southern Maine where they eventually settled in Windham, ME closer to their daughters and first two grandchildren; their pride and joy! While in Windham, Joel’s favorite part-time job was with AR Cail & Son Landscaping and Excavation where his friendly, caring and fun personality created several special friendships with both young and old.

This personality created many friendships throughout Maine playing golf and snowmobiling. He also cherished time at camp on Cedar Lake; sitting by the fire and listening to “tunes”. He loved all types of music but especially that of the 70’s and 80’s; songs that he and Mary sang and danced to often. Those songs were an integral piece of his high school memories with his “zoo crew”; friendships they all maintained over the years. They all traveled within the state of Maine and out of state to meet at one another’s home or at, you guessed it, a sporting event. Another pastime many may not realize is, Joel became an awesome cook in his later years, especially known for his mouth-watering tender meat dishes.

Joel is survived by his wife of 37 years, Mary (Moffatt) Thompson and his daughters, Maghan and her significant other Russell MacDougall and Danielle and her significant other Jarod Geary. His four priceless grandchildren, Matthew Arthur Harmon Jr “MJ” to whom he was originally “Bampa”; Ryleigh-Ann Marie Geary who changed his name to “Beepa”; Piper June Geary who is his Christmas miracle grandchild and Tori MacDougall, his “bonus” grandchild and welcomed blessing. He is also survived by two brothers, Sterling Thompson of Medway and Relland Thompson of East Millinocket, who called him “Tug” among many other nicknames. Also, special sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law all with whom he shared many wonderful times. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews who knew him as “Uncle Jole” or “Uncle Tut-Tut". Along with his Aunt Aunt Annie (Cram) Seavey and Aunt Cordelia (York) Cook and mother-in-law Shirley (Pelkey) Moffatt all whom he adored. Also, many very special cousins and friends. Even two furry loves, Harley and Gus.

Joel is predeceased by his beloved mother, June Irene (Cram) Thompson “Bubbles”, his father E. Arthur Thompson, his eldest brother, Royce Thompson (Ro-Ro), his grandparents Elsie and Lawrence Thompson and David and Florence Cram and his adored cousin Joyce Marie McLain.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday January 11, 2020 at The Old Robie School at Little Falls, 668 Gray Rd in Gorham, where his love of sports, community and family can be honored. Everyone, adults and children alike, is welcome to gather between 12 pm and 2 pm, ending with a memorial tribute at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, please share an act of kindness, especially to those less fortunate. Joel’s family thanks you from the depths of their souls for sharing your lives with them and showing kindness to Joel both while we were blessed to have him with us and to our family since his passing.

Another Celebration of Life and burial will take place in Joel’s home town of East Millinocket in the Spring to enjoy time to share memories with friends and family at “home”.