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Thompson

Bill 'Wallace' Thompson

Thompson

Bill 'Wallace' Thompson

Bill 'Wallace' Thompson Memoriam

Bill "Wallace" Thompson, who created, produced and co-starred in "The Wallace and Ladmo Show," a children's program infused with offbeat humor that endeared it to generations of Arizonans during its more than 35-year run, has died. He was 82.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic from Jul. 23 to Jul. 24, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Bill 'Wallace' Thompson

Sponsored by The Herberger Family.

285 Entries

Lucille Echols

May 15, 2025

I love Wallace and Ladmo. You will always be remembered. Rest in peace.

John Crabtree

July 13, 2024

"Wallace" was a creative genius who understood the importance of the "straight man" in comedy and letting others take the laugh. He´s in a pantheon with Jack Benny and Mel Blanc and Abbott and Costello as Wallace and Ladmo. His creativity brought joy to ages 5-55 and it was so cool to grow up with the show and experience the comedy for kids and then the comedy for adults that ran concurrently. That´s a hard trick to pull off. He created something very special to all of us. It wasn´t just a show, it was a welcoming community and I felt loved there.

Gilbert E. Mora Jr.

September 26, 2015

The memories keep flowing for The Wallace and Ladmo Show. The studio where the show taped from 1972 to 1989 isn't there any more. I worked in that building for 34 years. I can remember Bill (Wallace) bringing into the film room 5 days of cartoons to be build onto a reel and slides for in/out bumpers to be cleaned for a daily taping. That was the duties of a Telecine. We all remember Wallace proclaiming "Cartoon Time!". Before the 30th anniversary show, Ladmo brought in a box of small red reels 16mm film which contained all the home movies the gang shot since the 60's. They were badly needed of repair and then transferred to video tape. The film room crew finished the job and that's how these shorts were preserved for all to view and enjoy forever. My own dear mother is laid to rest 50 yards west of Ladimir and Patsy at St. Francis cemetery and when I go to pay my respects to her and other family members, I stop by and do the same for Lad.
Rest In Peace.
I miss you all very much!

Gilbert Mora
(Film Room & Master Control)

ed rogers

September 25, 2015

i just got my book thanks fo tuning in. its remarkable all the effort these guys put out . no vacations, doing stage shos for more money. i soulnds like a struggle. i was just thinking about all the people that came to talk about things. this was stuff that was gonna be important in our futures and wallace and ladmo made sure we were exposed to this stuff early in life. thanks guys. i feel like youre still here. i got my book today and havent been able to but it down. i was a little suprised to find out that mr and mrs wallace got married about the time i graduated from college. i watched them from as early as i remember till 1989 and i had been working my first job for years by then . i hope mrs wallace is doing ok

David Bills

April 10, 2015

Missing Bill Thompson more than ever!

FUNNY man!
Great Boss!
Dear Friend!
Will keep making Toys until I see you again Buddy!

ed rogers

April 1, 2015

mr and mrs wallace,
i ran home from school everyday to watch wallace and ladmo. in the summertime,my friends and i would be at someones house watching. i watched you thru college and whenver i could after i got my first job till it went off the air. i remember being picked to participate at a stage show but being to afraid to go down on stage. wallace pointed right at me and said "how about that kid sitting up there by the speaker:. i was at legend city a couple of times. the only thing i didnt make it to is the wallace and ladmo drive ins

Linda Miku

September 30, 2014

I grew up in Phoenix and was so excited to know that the toys on the Toy Shelf came from Toy Cottage--and I could go there, even if I didn't go to the show! I also likely failed to make my Tucson friends realize Just How Wonderful Wallace and Ladmo were (their loss, I suppose). So much joy and laughter were cast about by these guys that we grew up all the better for it. Thank you, Wallace (and your buddy Ladmo), for everything.

Alana Porter

September 2, 2014

Missing you!

The Trunk Space had an art show about AZ history. I was assigned to a section for 1980s. This is one of the drawings I made for it.

Tommy Cannon

August 31, 2014

August 26, 2014

The WALBOY of my Childhood!

Dave Bills

August 24, 2014

54mm WALLACE 1989 originally made for the 35th Anv.

Dave Bills

August 24, 2014

The Memories of WATCHING "It's WALLACE?"
Then getting to Work with Bill for 27 years making toys and Toy Soldiers!
I am going to miss my Boss and Buddy!

Bill was just as funny in person as he was on the AIR!
Solid businessman!
GREAT Comedian!
I am really missing my Boss and Buddy!

Ruby Vineyard

August 19, 2014

I watched Bill from the very first when he was on the "Goldust Charlie Show". Then all my four children watched the Wallace and Ladmo show. My two oldest were on the show before Ladmo bags came around. My son was so shy he couldn't ask for a toy, which was the prize then, and Bill saw to it that he got a wonderful little train that puffed smoke. Although I would give anything for a tape of that show I say "Thanks for the memories."

Gilbert E. Mora Jr.

August 15, 2014

As I was unable to attend the Tribute to Bill in Tempe on August 11th, 2014, I was able to view it on-line via live streaming. Walboy would have loved it. To see all my former co-workers give their testimony's and gratitude for Bill reminded me of how it was then to be part of the original TV5 Family. Again, it is with great comfort in knowing that Wallace and Ladmo w/ Mike are together again in Spirit. Ladmo in the SKY!...............
BRAVO and Thank-you.
Rest In Ever Lasting Peace!
Gilbert Mora (Film Room)
and Sons.

scott ryan

August 14, 2014

God bless thoughts prayers. To bill wallance thompson (rip ) my friend.

Gilda Felt

August 13, 2014

Such a sad day for Phoenix, and all of us who grew up watching the show. For so many years, he made us laugh. Thanks, Wallace, for making my childhood just that much more happy.

Last kiss

Maggie Blaetz

August 13, 2014

I went to the memorial for Bill (Wallace) Thompson 8-11-14 and I was so glad to see so many people there. Listening to all the speakers I learned so much about him I didn't know. Thank you Dan Harkins for letting us have it at your Theater. Thank you Katie for having this for Wallace and for all of us. We will always think of him with wonderful thoughts and great memories. RIP Wallace

August 12, 2014

I have 5 children who have watched "The Show" almost ever since the show started and I knew how important it was for "kids of all ages". My husband and I were invited to attend a formal dinner at the home of The National President of a medical association and the women is also the Dean of a Medical School. I walked into to her magnificent living room and next to her fireplace in all of it's glory was a "Ladmo Bag". Of course most of the people there had NO idea what it represented but I sure did. She told me she had wanted one so bad that when they had the reunion she and her sisters went down as "grown-ups" and she finally got one. We "Arizonians" know how cherished these bags were and are and how much the show meant to all of us.
Thanx,Marti Kasovac

August 12, 2014

It's just a sad day for Phx. so many of us grew up with the Wallace and Ladmo show.

Sue Braman

August 11, 2014

For one hour each afternoon life was perfect. No tests. No homework. No bullies. No chores. Sixty minutes of imagination and fun. Thank you!

L Hiram(Larry) Adams

August 11, 2014

Hi and my sympathy goes out to Bill's family.

I am saddened at Bill Thompson. Lois and I came to Mesa in November 1955 to start a life anew from the big farm in S.Plymouth NY it was later that we attended several of the Wallace and Ladmo shows at TV 5 and Yes I still have my Ladmo bag and Yes at 81 I still watch cartons on Saturday.

Rest in Peace Bill and we shall never forget how much joy and laughter you gave all of us back in the day along with your two side kicks.

l.Hiram(Larry)Adams
Phoenix November 1955 to now.Oh for the memories.

Frank Fafara & Wallace have fun exchanging Wallace's Book "Thanks for Tuning In" and Frank's "Only in My Dreams" CD

Patty Parker & Frank Fafara

August 8, 2014

I first met Bill Thompson in 1961 when he invited me to sing my recording " Only in My Dreams " on his new Channel 5 Show Teen Beat. From that day forward I grew to know and respect Wallace as not only one of the funniest people I had ever met, but also one of the most caring. I still have vivid recollections of the many Wallace & Ladmo shows we did together, including shows at Park Central, Bill's Records Chris Town and the fun times at Legend City Amusement Park.

Over the years our paths would cross again several times including 2007 when my wife, singer Patty Parker, and myself had fun at a special Sixties re-union show with Wallace for Central High School. Everyone there marveled at how easily WallBoy could still pull off his beloved brand of humor. He never lost his magic !

Today we both miss him dearly, but are comforted by the decades of laughter & happy moments he shared with us.

We love and miss you Bill.

Bob Morritt

August 8, 2014

I am in Canada and just heard of 'Wallace's" (Bil) passing from his close friend of those days Frank Fara (formerly 'Fafara'). My sympathy over his loss I share with his family and fans.

Frank Fafara & Patty Parker

August 8, 2014

Vique Rojas

August 4, 2014

My first day at Channel 5 ended with me going into the hallowed office/dressing room of Wallace, Ladmo and Pat. I wanted to intoduce myself as the newest crew member but longtime super Wallace fan-having literally grown up in front of the set as my father was a big fan before I was born. That meeting ended with me biting my quivering lip and trying to control the welling tears in my eyes, I was so thrilled to meet men I loved so dearly. By the time I left their office I was a mess. But they knew from the start how much they meant to me and thankfully I never let an opportunity to reinforce that message pass me by. As I age, their impact on who I am today comes into sharper focus and to say thank you and I love you just doesn't seem to do justice. Wait a minute I just said a secret word!

Mary Jo

August 4, 2014

Thank you for my wonderful childhood memories watching you and Ladmo. My siblings and I would always go straight home so we wouldn't miss watching you after school...my family will miss you, but we will see you again one day.

Mark Spangler

August 4, 2014

I have watched the "Wallace and Ladmo show" since 1975 and have wonderful memories of watching the show every morning before school. I still have my Ladmo Bag which I got in 1978 with a few things I kept also. The latest treat for me was seeing Wallace two years ago at a "toy show" in Phoenix, we talked for a bit and I took a picture with him, shook his hand and thanked him for entertaining me growing up. "Great memories forever"

Nancy Kmetko

August 3, 2014

Those were the days!!! Funny, honest pure fun and innocent. Wish there were shows like that now. Wallace and Ladmo were there for me in times that are so different than what we have for our children now. You all will be icons in my opinion! Love to your family. Reuniting with Ladmo will make Heaven one happy place!!!

James Plumb

August 2, 2014

I lived in Mesa Verde 10 miles outside of Blythe Ca. The Wallace & Ladmo show was my favorite as a child. I didn't have very many friends at that time, and was picked on a lot. It made my day to get home and watch the show it helped me through a lot.
THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL CHILDHOOD.

Mick Walt

August 2, 2014

Wallace has been and will remain a part of my entire life since 1951. My family (and I) were raised on Wallace and Ladmo. Our thanks to his family for a man shared with the world. We will always love what he did for us for so many decades. Rest in Peace, Bill Thompson, We love and will miss you....the Walt family

August 1, 2014

The Wallace and Ladmo show was a huge part of my childhood because I grew up in Phoenix. Whenever I visit with friends from a long time ago, talk eventually gets around to the funny skits on your show.

You will be missed. Thankfully with reruns, we will be able to continue to watch the show!

August 1, 2014

The frye family

August 1, 2014

From the first time I laid my eye's on Wallace inperson Summer of 1959, at the Thomas Rd. W&L Drive-in, to the last time at the Legend City Reunion 2013 event in Tempe...I got the same level of excitement,and joy knowing he was near me.I'll miss him more than I can ever describe..although, I believe that there's more to come in the way of Gags, and practical jokes by him. Love you, and the Kings of Cartoons are back together now. (Wallace & Ladmo)

andrew turk

August 1, 2014

hi thopson fiamly
my husdud Andrew I went a play
of wallice and Lambo

Brenda

July 31, 2014

Thank you for making my childhood a little bit happier.

The Longmoor Family

July 31, 2014

Our condolences to the Thompson family, Yes a piece of Arizona history died today and in our hearts. Wallace (Walboy) will always be in our hearts. There is so much to say and so much to treasure about those days. The Wallace and Ladmo show was my family's get together time. We would all rush home to watch the show. Even my Dad would try to get home in time to watch the show. He loved it! What a treat for us all. You kept us in stitches to the end. Say Hi to Ladmo for us. Rest in Peace.

Robin Williams

July 31, 2014

Wallace, is my first and fondest memory of growing up in the Valley of the Sun. I feel so fortunate and blessed to have had him in my life. God bless him!

July 30, 2014

My favorite show as a child.
RIP Wallace. You will be missed.

Marianne Thull-Moore

July 30, 2014

So sorry to hear of your passing. My sister & I enjoyed & grew up with you and Ladmo. RIP and say Hi to Ladmo!

Mark Little

July 30, 2014

Thanks, Wallboy.

Laura Smith

July 30, 2014

Thanks for the memories. What a great show. I started watching when it was "It's Wallace". My kids was on the Wallace & Ladmo show three times!

greg figueroa

July 30, 2014

We were on the show when we were kids, great memory. Rest in Peace Wall Boy!!!!!

Mitch Kubat

July 30, 2014

Thanks for all the good memories:)

Diana Barker

July 30, 2014

Thank you for the wonderful memories and the Ladmo bag! You created a wonderful childhood for many people.

Linda,Gary & Karen Podvin,Davis & Sloan

July 30, 2014

All of us remember Bill from the Goldust Charley show where he pushed a broom around & didn't talk. I think that is where he got started. All of us watched it every day & then watched when he started his own show. He was a great man with his buddies Ladmo & Pat. He will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace Bill. God Bless the Thompson family & Pat McMahon for your loss.

Wallace and Kelmo

Kelly Ludlum

July 30, 2014

Hopefully, I have already expressed to Wallace, personally, how much he meant to me. I'm sure he understood because he took such delight in making me feel that I was the biggest fan. In that regard, I am not afflicted with regret, but just a sad loss that the world doesn't have Bill Thompson. He was part of our Arizona DNA. My children not only watched the show, they got to be on the show AND they got to meet Wallace and Ladmo. They are third generation Wallace watchers! What a huge impact he had on us! Wallace was in person as he was on the show. There was no pretense. He was a great producer, great writer, great performer. He was a pioneer of television. He always said, "it's just a kids' show". But, we all knew it was something more. It made us an Arizona family. It soothed our pain. It gave us joy. It gave us all a great sense of humor. Yet, this is only one piece of him. My prayers go to the family he loved so dearly. May you find joy in the memories. And, good luck cleaning up that room. You know which one I mean! I love you Wallboy.

Brian Walker

July 30, 2014

Thanks for helping to make me who I am Wallboy. You kept us out of trouble because we would race home after school to watch. I am a little sad as is anyone who was honored to have you in their lives.

James Plumb

July 30, 2014

Thank you all for the wonderful childhood memory's.
James Plumb, originally from Blythe CA

Janet (Mowry) Zimmer

July 29, 2014

Bill Thompson (Wallace)was creative, funny, brilliant, and the best part of era that was so innocent. My Love & Prayer's go out to his Family & Friends

Wallace & Me Last Day Of Fair 10-24-2004

David Culling

July 29, 2014

Wallace was a close friend of mine for the past ten years. I was born and raised in Phoenix, but didn't actually get to know him in person until October 2004. Since that time I became very good friends with him and was able to attend more than 100 events that pertained to the Wallace & Ladmo Show and its cast & crew. I photographed each of the more than 100 events and have amassed a collection of more than 25,000 photographs. I cherish each and every one of them. I will surely miss having lunch with him on Friday's as we've done for more than six years now. You were my Buddy and a Good Friend. I Miss and Love You Very Much!

Zen Jen

July 29, 2014

Thanks for letting us tune in!

July 29, 2014

Thanks for all the fun and cartoons Wallace. Say hello to Ladmo for me too.

July 29, 2014

Thank you for the memories and touching so many lives. You, Ladmo and Gerald will live on forever. You have a special gift of creating laughter, love and smiles to all that knew you and your show. Share your love for live with Ladmo and the kids in heaven.

pat nic

July 29, 2014

Thanks "Wallboy" You were the strait one amoungst the crazies. Tell Ladmo we said hi

Scott Stone

July 29, 2014

Good night Wallace, thank you for the laughs old pal. Please give Ladmo my best!

Peggy Lanspeary

July 29, 2014

Wall-Boy-You are the reason everyone in my family has a warped sense of humor---which is a good thing! Avery good thing!

Jennie Waite

July 29, 2014

You will be missed my disable brother never miss a show when we lived in Phx . I was glad you still had video clips of the show for me to show him for he cried when I told him Wallace went to heaven.

Shane Christensen

July 29, 2014

Thank you so much for the memories. You made my childhood fun, and because of that, you were priceless. Rest well, Wallboy...and tell Ladmo hi for all of us.

July 29, 2014

I was born at 12:06pm and the show came on at noon. My mother always said I was born just in time to watch Wallace and Ladmo. I am so greatful for the childhood you gave me, I was even on the show a few times though I never scored a Ladmo bag. Have fun in Heaven seeing your side kick Ladmo up there.

kristi hermans

July 29, 2014

Thank you for all the years of laughter as a kid watching you and Ladmo. You made my childhood great, thank you wall boy! Now you and Ladmo are together again... ho ho ha ha hee hee ha ha....

July 29, 2014

My heart is heavy.....

Tom Howard

July 29, 2014

You were a big part of our morning lives. My handicap sister refused to go to school until she seen Wallace and Ladmo. Many many memories my dear friend. RIP we will always love you.

Rose Dyke

July 29, 2014

R.I.P. Wallace!!! I remember being on your show years ago!!!!

Meeting Wallace was like meeting one of The Beatles. So grateful I grew up with the show. My sons grew up w/ them too! Part of who we are! TY!

Cyndy Bensema

July 29, 2014

Ted Thompson

July 29, 2014

Thank you very much. Goodbye. May the family find peace.

Terry Johnson

July 29, 2014

Thank you Wallace!
I'm one of the baby boomers that you made laugh!
My condolences to the friends and family.

Heather Martin

July 29, 2014

Generations of Arizonans were blessed by your humor and kindness. You will be greatly missed by all.

Jason Sharp

July 29, 2014

I and my sister Carrie had the funniest time on the show ( 2x ) in 1986 we shale remember you always thank you

Valerie Graham

July 29, 2014

As Wallace, you were a brilliant comic and a mainstay of my Phoenix childhood. We were fortunate to share in your antics. Sad to hear of your passing. An era is gone. But you will live on forever in our hearts. Blessings to your loved ones. Valerie

Paul Ramirez

July 29, 2014

Great times watching you as a kid and adult you will be missed

Trish Blassingame

July 29, 2014

Thank you for sharing planet Earth with all of us. She weighs a bit less now with your passing but Heaven is brighter with you as a Star.

July 29, 2014

Wallace, you were way ahead of your time. Many will claim to be your biggest fan, but nobody is a bigger fan of you than me! You were such a huge part of my childhood, and such a daily comfort. I'm sure you are laughing it up with Ladmo in Heaven. I heard that days before your passing, while in Hospice, you were faking out the nurses, pretending to be dead....FUNNY to the end! xxxooo Pat Grant Foster

Della Williamson

July 29, 2014

You were so part of my life in the 60's and 70's I feel like I have lost a beloved uncle. I am deeply saddened and empathize with his family. Wallace would want you to keep laughing, no matter what. God Bless

Leslie Semrau

July 29, 2014

You will be missed. My childhood was made happy because of you.I watched your show after school for years. Rest in Peace Wallace. I hope you and Ladmo are giving away "Ladmo Bags" in Heaven.

Greg Orson

July 29, 2014

You had a part in raising so many kids... keeping them out of trouble after school. Rest in Peace Bill Thompson. You've certainly earned your wings.

Katherine Bailey

July 29, 2014

RIP YOU WERE A BIG PART OF MY LIFE GROWING UP, I LOVED YOUR SHOW MORE THAN ANY OTHER ON TELEVISION. I WISH THAT MY CHILDREN HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO KNOW THE SHOW

Lisa Cohen

July 29, 2014

To my "funnier dad", you will be so missed. Thanks for elevating this little kid's sense of humor. We were lucky to have you.

Michael Daine

July 29, 2014

I truly believe that my life and many others have been touched in such a positive way from having the opportunity to experience and grow up with the Wallace and Ladmo Show. My heartfelt condolences to the family and may Bill's endearing love stay with you always.

Melissa Bradner

July 29, 2014

Thank you Wallace for all memories! You will be forever missed!

Rick Kuszmar

July 29, 2014

Your humanity was an inspiration to all who had the pleasure of knowing you.

Charlie Sykes

July 29, 2014

You may not be where we can see you Bill. But you will always be here, always be with those of us who grew older watching you.

Terry Owen

July 29, 2014

You probably never fully realized the extent of the influence you had on us.

July 29, 2014

Heaven is a very happy place ..but even more so now that WALBOY is up there with LADMO..god speedmy friend I will miss your smile>

Lynnette Quagliano

July 29, 2014

The Wallace and Ladmo Show was the first tv show I ever watched. I drove my mother crazy singing the "Ooh ooh Ah ah's" all over the house. Thank you for the beautiful memories.

Yogi Roesner

July 29, 2014

Thank you for the memories.

Sheri Ricker

July 29, 2014

Thank you for raising me, teaching me the fine art of humor, keeping me company during my formative years in Phoenix. Thanks for all the great cartoons and skits. I loved them all. I love you Wallace and Ladmo.

Roxanne Wingo

July 29, 2014

Thanks for the memories. Love you, Wallboy!

Linda Moore

July 29, 2014

Here's to Wall-Boy!!! First my condolences to the family. As many Az children did, I grew up with Wallace & Ladmo. What a joy and treasure we had growing up. I was teased and bullied endlessly in school, thank God I had heroes to come home to on TV. The Wallace & Ladmo show helped me through the rough and tough times, I could come home and relate to Ladmo. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You for the show. You will be missed. RIP Wallace I know y and Lad are on the other side giving Ladmo bags out to the children there. Also thank you for the 2 Ladmo bags I received 1 when I was a child on your show and one when I saw the first stage play as an adult. Love you!!!

Steve Mefford

July 29, 2014

Thank you Wallace for all the memories. We watched Wallace and Ladmo when we were young and all of our children watched it too. Always a W&L fan...

Steve & Janinne Mefford

July 29, 2014

We watched Wallace and Ladmo when we were young and all of our children watched it too. Always a W&L fan...

Susan S.

July 29, 2014

What an amazing legacy. Thank you Wallace and thank you Thompson family for sharing a true Arizona legend with the rest of us. Those of us who grew up with the show are members of special Club- if you're a member, you can't help but smile with the memories. If you aren't- well...ask a club member, we have a ton of stories to share.

July 29, 2014

Thank you for being our friend.

Ben Garcia

July 29, 2014

Wallace and Ladmo was a big part of me growing up. My childhood was the best because of these guys. I will forever miss them

Jacquelyn Such

July 29, 2014

All I can say is thank you for being there while I grew up and also while my sons grew up. Heaven is a much richer place for your presence. I think Ladmo is happier too. Thanks to your family for sharing you with us.

Candice Parr

July 29, 2014

Thank you for deciding to stay here in Arizona, create here, raise your family here with us. This could only have happened once. What a gift you gave us!

Leonard Lopez

July 29, 2014

The Wallace and Ladmo show is part of my childhood that I always treasure, just hearing the theme song I get overwelmed with emotion. Thank you Bill Thompson, now you can join Lad and make them laugh in Heaven.

Now they are together.

Paul Grant

July 29, 2014

Goodbye Wallace. I watched your show for 20 years and loved every day. I only hope that children today can find shows as fun and respectful to them as you and Ladmo were. Ho,ho,ho,ha,ha,he,he,he.

Patricia Ireland-Williams

July 29, 2014

Thanks for the memories. Your impact on the children of Phoenix is immeasurable. We will miss your sweet smile and great sense of humor. Growing up in Phoenix and watching your show was such a delight "back in the day". Blessings on your family.

Brian Bice

July 29, 2014

You will be forever missed.

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