Larry Ray "Bear" Thompson 1952-2009

Larry Ray Thompson, affectionately known as “Bear”, age 57, son of Wilburn and Hazel (Gann) Thompson was born April 13, 1952 in his grandparent's home in the Rocky Branch community. He passed June 17, 2009 at Texas County Memorial Hospital, Houston, MO.

Larry was preceded in death by his first wife Janis Thompson, his mother, and both sets of grandparents, a niece and a great-niece.

He is survived by his current wife Denise Thompson of the home, his father Wilburn Thompson, of Cabool, two daughters: Marla Thompson Pattee of St. Robert, MO and Angie Barnes and her husband Kirk of Licking, MO; two step-daughters: Katrina Lilly and her husband Joe of Ft. Lewis, Washington, and Katelyn Frailey of Branson, MO; one brother, Randy and his wife Janene of Cabool, MO; one sister, Judy Flageolle and her husband Hank of Mansfield, MO; four grandchildren and three nephews.

As a child he was a member of Simmons Baptist Church and was actively involved in the activities. He received Christ as his Savior at a Youth Rally at Moberly Church as an early teen and was baptized in water in 1968. In more recent years Larry attended Faith Fellowship and for the past three years has attended Souls Harbor Family Worship. While attending Souls Harbor, Larry faithfully attended choir practices and sang in the Christmas and Easter Choir presentations.

Larry loved hunting, fishing and riding his Harley. He enjoyed gardening, barbecuing and smoking meats. He could be found at the concession stand at the Houston football field for many years grilling hamburgers and hotdogs. Larry had also been a member of the Jaycees of Houston and an avid bowler winning several tournaments and holding office in the local bowling club.

He worked as paramedic at Phelps County Regional Medical Center, Rolla, MO. He said it was one of his most enjoyable jobs.

Larry loved his family dearly. It was the highlight of his day to watch his grandson in his sporting endeavors or spend time at the birthday parties for grandkids, siblings or parents.

He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was always looking for ways to take care of his family and friends and felt that God had given him each day to enjoy and live for him. He will be missed, but we know he is enjoying the beauty of heaven and is rejoicing in the presence of the One who created him.

Oak Dale Cemetery