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Benjamin Thompson Obituary
April 18, 1974 - April 28, 2024
Nipomo - Mr. Benjamin "Ben " Edward Thompson, a beloved husband, father, son and brother, passed away on April 28, 2024, in Santa Maria, California, at the age of 50. Born on April 18, 1974, in Santa Barbara, CA, Benny was known for his passion for racing and craftsmanship.
Ben was an IBEW Journeyman electrician at Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. He dedicated his free time to his hobbies of fishing, and racing. He was a vital part of the Thompson Bros racing team, as crew chief starting with hobby stocks and later moving on to Sprint Cars. Benny's love for racing was evident as he spent countless hours in the garage with his father, Larry, brothers Jimmy & Lauren and friends, building everything from scrap from the junkyard. The Thompson Bros. Racing "Junkyard Jimmy #71" won four consecutive Sprint Car Championships 2000 -2003, at The Santa Maria Speedway.
He is survived by his wife, Bernadette, his stepson Adam, his daughter Clara Thompson, son Edward Thompson, from his marriage to Ysabel Eighmy, brothers Lauren and Jimmy, and mother, Bonnie Thompson-Grahek & step father, Mike Grahek, numerous aunts, uncles & cousins. Ben was preceded in death by his father, Larry Thompson, and his son, Benjamin Edward Thompson Jr., Uncle Richard , Uncle Gerald, & grandparents.
A Memorial Mass will be held at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church, June 10, Monday, at 10:00 am, located at 298 S Thompson Rd, Nipomo, CA followed by a luncheon. in the parish hall immediately after.
Lady Mortuary in Arroyo Grande, CA, is assisting with the funeral arrangements.
His Grandmother Shirley Gruber and his Uncle Jerry Gruber have also passed away recently as well, all 3 within 49 days. It saddens the family to have a triple funeral.
Benny will be forever missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Thompson
Sponsored by Lady Family Mortuary & Crematory.
4 Entries
R. O'Dell
January 2, 2025
You were my brother's best friend. You became my friend after he passed. Ben, you were such a comfort to me, having you in my life was kind of like I still had Aaron. I went back to our last contact, wow, the timing. I cannot wrap my mind around the fact that you are gone. Ben, I have typed and deleted paragraphs. I have no idea what to say. I will miss you; I have missed you, I didn't know you were gone.
Willy
May 5, 2024
I´m very grateful to have known Ben for over 30+ years I truly loved his passion for racing and his family . You achieved so much more than so many ever thought possible with your family and racing together, you will always be very deeply missed until we race again , Willy
Aileen Abd Hurt
May 4, 2024
When I first started working at DCPP in the Electric Shop, I met Ben. The first time I met him, I told him "you must be a great dude because my son´s name is Benny too." He quickly became one of my best friends, always checking in to make sure I was okay and that I didn´t need anything. He was the type of person thats love and joy filled a room - he was the life of the party and always looking out for his friends. Ben will be greatly missed. Knowing him was an honor and being his friend was a true privilege. Rest in peace, Ben. I know heaven had a party when you entered the pearly gates like has never been seen before.
Kent and Chevell South
May 3, 2024
Hugs to you all! Unbelievable~ without a doubt he will be missed!Positive thoughts and prayers sent your way!!
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Lady Family Mortuary & Crematory555 Fair Oaks Ave, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
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