Richard L. Thompson

Richard L. Thompson, 78, of Ellicottville, NY passed away peacefully Sunday, September 29, 2024 at Olean General Hospital following a brief illness.

Born October 16, 1945 in North Tonawanda, NY, he was the son of the late Frank and Leanora Kluge Thompson. He was married December 25, 1964 to the former Joan Nowark, who predeceased him in 2019 after 54 years of marriage.

He was a veteran of the United States Army, serving from 1964 – 1967.

Richard and his wife Joan lived life on their own terms. Richard was an avid gun and target shooting enthusiast. He loved sitting on his front porch and enjoying the critters that called his land home. He enjoyed visits from friends and family alike. Richard’s dogs, Tristan, Yukie, and Timber and his cat, Fred, provided much love and companionship.

Surviving are: four daughters, Michele Bridges, Kelly Dolan, Nancy (Eric) Westman, Kim (Mike Jensen) Thompson; a son, Rick Thompson; six grandchildren, Rachel Organski, Brienna (Wiatt) Hedrick, Eric (Megan) Westman Jr., Bryce Thompson, Jesse Thompson, and Abigail Thompson; nine great-grandchildren, Brendon and Sienna Wallens, Benson and Parker Hedrick, Alexis, Eric III, and Eastlyn Westman, and Austin and Gus Wynn; and his #1 ex-son-in-law, Randy Organski.

He was predeceased by a son, Frank Thompson, and two sons-in-law, William Dolan and Terry Bedell.

There will be no visitation.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family and will be announced.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, NY.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.