Fenton Thompson

Fenton Charles "Sam" Thompson, 89, of the Calkins Road, Peru, passed away Friday, June 20, 2025, at The University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont, with his loving family by his side.
He was born in Bay Shore, NY, on February 1, 1936, the son of Fenton Alvin and Theresa (Immel) Thompson. He moved to Peru in 1961, where he built a life rooted in service, community, and the outdoors.
Fenton proudly served in the United States Navy from 1953 to 1957, working in aviation aboard the USS Hornet. After his military service, he continued his aviation career with Grumman in Long Island before taking the New York State Police exam. He was sworn in as a Trooper in the early 1960s and dedicated 35 years to the force, retiring with distinction as a Uniform Captain. In retirement, he spent his days working with Kelly's Tree Service alongside his son, Fenton Michael, and longtime friend John.
Fenton lived life with purpose and passion. He pitched for the New York State Police softball team sponsored by Adam's Glass, and later found great joy in gardening, hunting, fishing, and hiking. In 2001, he became a proud Adirondack 46er, having climbed all 46 High Peaks. He was a longtime member of the Hatchbrook Hunting Club in Paul Smiths, where he enjoyed hunting, cooking, playing cards, and spending time with friends and family such as Jack, Freddie, Don, Greg, Tom, and Fenton Michael. A true animal lover, Fenton cherished the companionship of his late dog, Lyric, and was known for keeping treats on hand for the neighborhood dogs - Lilly, Otis, and Rey Rey - who belonged to his neighbors Chris, Shannon, and Sophia.
Fenton was a man of integrity, generosity, and grit. He could talk to anyone, often keeping loved ones on the phone for hours. Neighborly and dependable, he would give you the shirt off his back. You could always find him on his daily walk down the road where he'd always stop for a chat. He was strong, proud, stubborn in the best way, and deeply devoted to his family, friends, and country.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Elizabeth Thompson; his daughter, Debbie Thompson of North Carolina; daughter-in-law, Jill Thompson; grandchildren Ashley Thompson and her spouse Lance Kornberg of Florida, Caitlin Thompson and her husband Jonathan Brown of West Chazy, and Jessica Curry of Champlain; great-grandchildren, Adaleigh, Kalianna, and Nevyn; and very special friends, Dee & Rich, and Steve.
He was predeceased by his parents, Fenton Alvin and Theresa Thompson; his in-laws, Michael and Anne Murphy; and his beloved son, Fenton Michael Thompson.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru. A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. in the Hamilton Funeral Home Chapel. Committal prayers, military honors, and burial will follow in St. Augustine's Cemetery in Peru. A reception will follow, with details to be announced at the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Elmore SPCA in honor of Fenton's love for animals, or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute which took great care of his son, Fenton Michael.
Arrangements are in the care of the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru, 518-643-9055.