Dennis L. Thompson, 85, passed away surrounded by his family on August 9, 2025. He was born December 9, 1939 in Belleville, Kansas to the late Edgar Garland Thompson and Winifred Joyce Howell Thompson, the oldest of eleven children.
Dennis joined the United States Navy in 1957 where he served for nearly four years. During this time, he met his wife, Sammy Charlene Hazelwood Thompson, in Hollywood, California. They were married for 65 years, raising four children, and were later blessed with thirteen grandchildren.
Truly a jack of all trades, Dennis worked as a cook, shopkeeper, police officer, farmer and butcher, all before attending college. After graduating from Kansas State University, Dennis went to work for Bunge Corporation, where he spent the next 40 years of his career, working first as an accountant and later as a Business Operations Manager, before retiring in 2010.
When not working, Dennis enjoyed time on the golf course and in the great outdoors. Known for his quick wit, contagious smile and boundless sense of humor, he brought laughter to those around him. A dessert connoisseur, Dennis had a special fondness for Ted Drewes Hawaiian Delight, Chips Ahoy cookies with peanut butter, Dr. Pepper, and just about any sweet treat he could get his hands on. He loved classic country music and the simple pleasures of life shared with family and friends.
Dennis was a man of devout faith who committed his life to walking in the footsteps of Jesus. A long-time member of Crestwood Christian Church, he served faithfully as an elder and took great joy in ministering to others. He listened more than he spoke, always placing the needs of others before his own. He understood the lasting impact of a kind word or a simple gesture, and he lived as a shining example of kindness, compassion, humility, and love to all who knew him. For this, he will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his loving wife; children, Darren (Amy) Thompson, Kelli (Richard) Doran, Jennifer (Jason) Carmas and Michelle (Brian) Betner; grandchildren, Emily Doran, Dillon Thompson, Collin Thompson, Claire Thompson, Noah Thompson, Tyler Follis, Zachary Gibson, Lance Gibson, Luke Betner, Brooke Gibson, Graham Betner and Lylah Carmas; and siblings, Kreta Thompson, Marilyn (Eddie) Tamerius, Paula Bureman, Randy (Lana) Thompson, Jerry (Hope) Thompson and Jody (Dana) Thompson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson Richard “Trey” Doran, and siblings Garland “Butch” Thompson, Jackie “Jack” Thompson, Luann Thompson and Tammie Everhart.
SERVICES: A visitation and funeral service will be held at Crestwood Christian Church on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 10:30 a.m., with a luncheon to follow. He will be buried at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery during a private family service.
My heart aches for Sammy and the kids, a good man who raised a wonderful family. Wish I could be there to celebrates his life and comfort the family
Denny was a very kind and helpful man. I always enjoyed talking with him and hearing stories. I know he will be missed by his family and grand children. My condolences to his family. Rest easy, Denny.
I am so very sad to hear of the passing in Dennis. He was one of my favorite people Im sorry brother but we are out of town and will not be able to attend the funeral. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Chris Pulley