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.
Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to the Crestwood Christian Church.
SERVICES: Services will be held at Crestwood Christian Church on Saturday, August 16, 2025 with visitation from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by funeral service at 12:30 p.m. Burial will be 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
My heart goes out to Sammy and the entire family. He was a kind man, with a heart for his Lord. I know he will be missed by all of you. Love and Prayers……Joyce
I am so sorry for your loss to Kelli Doran and family.
Prayers for Sam and his family.
Denny and I were classmates thru school.
Eternal grant unto him, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May the Souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
It’s hard to know just what to say at this sad time because your loss is so great and because Denny will be missed in so many ways. Just wanted Denny’s family to know that they are being thought about and are in our thoughts and prayers. With sincere condolences ~ Ramona & Max Mumford and Charlotte Kleveland/Gonzales 💙🙏🏻💙
Dearest Darren & Amy, Sammy & the entire family…
You are all in my thoughts, heart and prayers at this time of great loss. Sending you my deepest sympathy and love.. 🙏🏼💜🙏🏼
Dear Darren & Amy, Sammy & the entire family …
You are all in my thoughts, heart, and prayers at this time of great loss. Sending you my deepest sympathy and love. 🙏🏼💙🙏🏼 Gretl
I send our sympathy and prayers for comfort and peace for Sammy and all the family Take comfort in God’s promise of eternal ltfe for Believers.
“My heart goes out to you all upon hearing of Dennis’s passing. He was the one who brought me to Bunge in 1987, and he was an absolutely wonderful boss. I remember feeling a genuine sadness when he retired, but I still have a special photo of us from his retirement party proudly displayed on my dresser. That’s a testament to how much he meant to me. Even after retiring, Dennis would periodically visit Bunge and never failed to stop by my desk to say hello. Every single time, I felt incredibly blessed and genuinely cared about. Our loss here on earth is truly heaven’s fortune. Please accept my deepest condolences. With warmest regards, Michele Jacobs”
Aunt Sammy, Darren and Amy, Kelli and Rich, Jennifer and Jason, Michelle and Brian, and all the rest of the family, I was deeply saddened to hear of Uncle Denny’s passing because I know how much of a loss it is for each of you.
When I think about the visits we had with you all, I remember Uncle Denny as always engaging and caring. I know he was a great husband and father because I witnessed the love he had for you all.
A loving husband, father, and grandfather here on earth is a great example of our Heavenly Father’s love. I know that Uncle Denny is with Jesus, and is in no better place.
I’m sorry I couldn’t make it to St.Louis, but please know that I love you all and will be praying for the Holy Spirit to give you comfort and strength as you grieve for your loss of this wonderful man. Sending virtual hugs and love.
Tracy Hazelwood Green
Uncle Denny will truly be missed. I’ve got fond memories of family reunions when we all would gather together for fellowship. I thought a lot of him and enjoyed being around him. He was a Great Man. Our thoughts and Prayers are with Aunt Sammy and his family. 🙏
I’m sorry for your loss. He was always a quiet, kind man. Praying for comfort for the family
Dear Sammy and family, Pam and I are so sorry about your tremendous loss. We both held Dennis in the highest regard. He was a true friend. Please don’t hesitate to call us for any need.