Henry George Thompson

Henry George Thompson, 90, of West Bloomfield, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 20, 2025, at his home. Born on December 28, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, Henry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who touched the lives of everyone he met.

Henry met his beloved wife, Sandra (Murray) Thompson, at Rose’s Drive-In Restaurant in 1958, and the two were married on June 17, 1961. Together, they shared 63 years of love, laughter, and partnership, building a family that was at the heart of his world.

Henry is survived by his wife, Sandra; their four children: Kimberly (Peter) Lardizabal, Scott (Colleen) Thompson, Darin (Lorena) Thompson, and Pamela Price. Henry was also blessed with three "honorary children" who he and Sandra helped raise: Thomas Feiten, Theresa Martin, and Sharon Goldrup. These three neighbors became an integral part of their lives after the loss of their mother, and Henry loved them as if they were his own.

Henry’s legacy continues with his fourteen grandchildren: Peter, Keely (Adam), Mark, Erin, Robert, Connor, Broderick, Abigail, Liam, Jacob, Kai, Olivia, Miles, and Colby. His love for his grandchildren was immense, and his presence in their lives will be cherished forever.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, William and Isabella (Martin) Thompson; his sister, Mary Matters; and his brother, William Thompson.

Henry proudly served in the United States Navy from 1952 to 1955, stationed on the USS Goodrich DD/DDR-831, before returning home to lead a successful career as a truck driver. He worked for 35 years, retiring in 1997. Known on the CB radio as “Iron Horse,” he formed many lifelong friendships during his trucking days.

Henry was a proud member of the Troy Highland Masonic Lodge #468 and the Shriners, organizations that were close to his heart. He believed deeply in their missions and dedicated himself to supporting their charitable efforts. In addition, Henry was a generous man who, despite modest means, contributed regularly to causes such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, the Scottish Rite, the Valley of Detroit, and many others. His giving nature and unwavering support for those in need reflected a life rich in love, compassion, and selflessness.

After retirement, Henry found joy in helping others. He became the go-to handyman, bartender, host, dishwasher and PR man at Laffrey’s Steaks on the Hearth, a restaurant owned by Sandra, where he became a beloved figure in the community.

Henry was deeply involved in his children’s lives, ensuring they participated in the YMCA’s “Indian Guides and Princess Guides” program, where they camped and learned about Native American history. He also enjoyed a variety of hobbies in his free time, including playing cards or solitaire on his computer, golfing, hunting, fishing, woodworking and dancing. Henry loved spending time outdoors and created countless memories with his family at their local pool club, on annual camping trips to multiple camping sites and numerous family road trips to Traverse City, as well as on visits to Tennessee, Alabama and Florida to see his in-laws, daughter Kim and son Scott.

Henry will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, and his love for them will continue to guide them.

Henry’s family will receive visitors at the Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152 on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm, with a Masonic service taking place at 7:00 pm. Friends and family will continue to gather on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 10:00 am until the time of the service at 11:00 am, also at the funeral home. All guests are welcome to attend the Committal Service at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan immediately after the service.