STERLING
Ronald S. Thompson, 84, died peacefully in his home, surrounded by the loving care of his family on Wednesday, July 14, 2021.
He is survived by four daughters: Linda Chisholm and Debra Valley, both of Sterling, Carol Kelley of Barre, and Andrea Borelli of Petersham; eight grandchildren: Jennie, Cassie, Sarah, Jessica, Al, Joe, Liz and Lynn; and five great-grandchildren: Tucker, Makenzie, George, Katie, and Sara. He was predeceased by his wife, Eunice C. (Johnson) Thompson, who died in 2015. His daughter, Donna Ivaska, and his brother, Rodney Thompson, also predeceased him.
Ronnie was born in Holden and raised in Sterling, son of Stanley and Clara R. (Ball) Thompson. A lifelong resident of Sterling, he attended local schools, and matriculated to Fitchburg State College, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in English and History; and then went on to further his studies at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, where he earned a second Bachelor’s Degree.
In 1951, as young teenager, he began his life-long love of farming, taking over the family farm stand from his father, and growing the business over the years, along with the help of his wife and family. A farmer through and through, Ronnie, until the time of his death, owned and operated Thompson Gardens, Sterling. In addition, for several years, he taught Industrial Arts at Wachusett Regional High School.
The family would like to thank the Visiting Angels of Leominster, the VNA Hospice, and his favorite aide, Marcia, for the care, kindness, and compassion shown to Ronnie throughout his illness.
A funeral service honoring Ronnie’s life, and burial alongside his wife in Oakhill Cemetery, Sterling, will be held privately, under the care and direction of McNally & Watson Funeral Home, 304 Church St., Clinton. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606. To share a memory of Ronnie, or offer condolences to his family, please sign the Guest Book.
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