Richard Bryan Thompson

July 27, 1955 – September 13, 2026

Richard Thompson, age 71, of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on September 13, 2026, with his loving wife Karen by his side.

Born on July 27, 1955, in Dallas, Texas, Rich was the son of Ralph and Melva Thompson. Throughout his life, Rich was known for his strength, kindness, humor, generosity, and dedication to family.

Rich and Karen shared 50 years of marriage, creating a lifetime of memories and a family they deeply cherished. Rich was a devoted husband and a proud father to Bryan and Brett. His family grew to include his daughters-in-law, Leslie and Amanda, and his beloved grandchildren, Mathew, Kyle, Aidan, Emery, and Madison, all of whom brought great joy to his life.

Rich dedicated much of his life to 41 years of military service where he supported and maintained multiple U.S. and international military aircraft. During that time, he achieved multiple awards and medals:

• Air Force Commendation Medal with Two Devices

• Meritorious Service Medal with Two Devices

• Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Three Devices

• Air Force Civilian Achievement Medal with One Device

• 2005 Civilian of the Year

Rich placed great value on education and continued learning throughout his life. He earned his degree in Aircraft Systems Maintenance Technology from the Community College of the Air Force before going on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics, graduating magna cum laude. His commitment to furthering his education continued with a Master of Aeronautical Science, which he earned with distinction. These accomplishments reflected the same dedication, discipline, and drive that Rich brought to his career and everything he set out to achieve.

Outside of work, Rich enjoyed long-distance bike rides, some stretching more than a hundred miles, a reflection of both his adventurous spirit and determination. He loved spending time with family and friends, sharing a drink or two, telling stories, laughing, and simply enjoying the company of those around him. He enjoyed the challenge of hiking and sightseeing in National Parks, always appreciating the opportunity to experience somewhere new. Rich enjoyed firing up the grill or getting in the kitchen and cooking for family and friends. He truly valued the time he spent with others, and no matter what the occasion, he had a way of making ordinary moments memorable.

Those who knew Rich will remember him for his sense of humor, generosity, and his pride of country.

While Rich will be deeply missed, his memory will live on through the family he loved, the friendships he built, and the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of Rich’s life will be held on September 25, 2026, at 5:00 pm at Palm Northwest Mortuary in Las Vegas.