William Edward Thompson

William E. “Bill” Thompson, 78, passed away at his home surrounded by those he loved on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024. Bill was born on Nov. 24, 1945, in Elwood, Indiana. His wife of nearly 42 years and love of his life, Trudie A. Thompson (Thomas), preceded him in death.

Bill is survived by sisters Kay (Jack) Smyser and Patty Cockrill; daughters Cynthia Miller and Karen Friesen (Richard); son Jacob Thompson (Sarah); grandchildren Kyleigh Heyliger, Sam Miller, Joseph Friesen, Cooper and Nora Thompson, and Erik and Amanda Cline; and great-grandchildren Mason Heyliger and Moslee Patchon, Torin and Keiron Branagin, Zoey and Carter Friesen, and Elizabeth and Emmerson Cline. 

He was preceded in death by parents Jacob and Mary Thompson; daughter Candice Cline; granddaughter Karli (Tim) Branagin; son-in-law Reid Miller; brother Jerry Sutherland; and sisters Jeanne Anne Myers and Barbara Blackford.

Bill grew up in Hamilton County, and following his time at Fishers High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy on May 3, 1963.He served aboard the U.S.S. Chilton in the Mediterranean and Caribbean seas, earning the Armed Forces Expeditionary and National Defense Service medals. Bill spent his life as a tradesman and small-business owner.

A celebration of life will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 14, 2024, at Flanner Buchanan Washington Park North Cemetery located at 2706 Kessler Blvd. W. Dr., Indianapolis, IN, 46228.

 A memorial service and burial service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in honor of their loved one to go to the American Heart Association.