A tribute to my father Richard Glen Thompson

Richard Glen Thompson

Dad was a complex man, with strong ideals. If Dad saw something that he wished to see changed, Dad would try to change it.

Dad in his professional life wore many hats. Whether he was on the city planning commission, or working in his own construction business, he tried to be the man for every job he could do. When he saw a need in Mapleton, UT for a sewage system, Dad worked day and night for months on a plan. He even got large pumps donated from Geneva Steel to the city, and used his skills and experience as a project manager to write up a full proposal.

They went with a different plan, but I think they wish now that they would have used his ideas instead.

Everyone has regret though. I think everyone wishes different life situations turned out differently. I know I miss my dad, and I know his 8 remaining children do as well. Out of Dad’s nine children, eight remain here to mourn him—and our much-missed brother Justin is with him now.

All of us wish we would have had more time with him. He was such a joy to be around. His silly sense of humor, his musical talents, and his hunting stories were all qualities that his loved ones know and miss.

Dad was so proud of all his 9 children and 18 grandchildren. He even has a great-grandchild on the way right now.

I remember when Dad would meet someone new—and I was there with him—one of the first things he would tell them is: “I have 9 children.” He would always find a way to casually mention that. That’s definitely something to be proud of, especially when you know all my siblings: Melanie, Michelle, Robin, Stacy, Valerie, Ryan, Melissa, Brad, and Justin.

Believe it or not, Dad and I have a lot in common. That’s just one of many things. Talking with my sisters recently reminded me of how much we all share with Dad.

My brother Brad was Dad’s best friend in the world. They enjoyed many years of good conversation and working together. Working with Dad holds my most cherished memories of him.

When Dad had a construction company, he always had me help him. He believed a contract was no better than a handshake and a promise. He was so innocent and sweet like that.

In the last part of his life, he endured health problems and hardships. He was a strong man—but not even Superman is invincible.

May Dad finally have peace and rest. He deserves it.

Love,
Ryan Richard Thompson
01/02/2008

Happy Fathers day, and even happier if you still have yours!

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