Leon A. "Santa" Thompson

Leon A. Thompson, October 1946-August 3, 2025, age 78.

Be the reason someone smiles today. -Leon

Pops, this is probably the only time we'll get away with such flattery-but we're not sorry. You earned every word, and this is a fitting way to honor you: the man we all love, and now miss more than you'd ever have allowed. Until we meet again-your loving family.

Leon A. Thompson, affectionately known as: "T", "Mr. T", "Leonardo", "Lee", "Santa", "Pops," and "Grandpops", was a husband, father, grandfather, mentor, coach, teacher, and friend. But more than anything, he was a servant leader - a man who never asked for the spotlight, but whose light shone brightly in the lives of everyone he touched. He was the kind of man whose legacy can't be measured by titles or accolades - though he had those too. His life, from beginning to end, was centered on a simple, unwavering mission: to help others become the best version of themselves.

Born in October 1946 in Dane County, Wisconsin, Leon grew up with a quiet determination that guided him through every chapter of his life. One of his most remarkable qualities was his instinct to take action when he saw a need - he built programs to solve problems and uplift others.

He began his college career at UW–La Crosse, where he was one of the original 12 founding members of the Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, affectionately known as "The Dirty Dozen." There, he formed friendships that would last a lifetime. He later transferred to UW–Oshkosh to earn both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees. While at UWO, he met the love of his life, Wendy, and in 1970 they began a marriage that would span over 55 years

Leon pursued education not for prestige, but because he believed deeply in its power to transform lives. And for the next 32 years and 32 days, that's exactly what he did-as a teacher at Oshkosh West High School.

At Oshkosh West, he led Student Council and hosted leadership conferences, planting seeds of confidence and purpose in generations of students. He was named Educator of the Year, but those who knew him best will tell you - it was never about recognition. It was always about lifting others. At times, other teachers would shy away from students labeled as 'troublemakers' - but he was always happy to welcome them into his classes. He typically won them over, made a difference in their lives, and often gained lifelong friends in the process. He created a leadership program designed to build self-confidence and character, refusing to let negative labels define a student's potential. Leon had a gift for seeing the good in others and offering encouragement that could change a life.

Leon's coaching philosophy was rooted in heart. He founded the Junior and Senior Babe Ruth baseball programs in Oshkosh, as well as the Oshkosh Merchants baseball team. He selected players not solely based on skill, but on how deeply they wanted to play-for their shared love of the game and their commitment to growth. His teams, often underestimated, went on to play with grit, passion, and pride - and they won. He also coached for Oshkosh Youth Baseball and the Senior Babe Ruth traveling team, the Oshkosh Tornadoes.

Leon not only coached-he also donned referee stripes. To support his growing family with Wendy, and driven by his love of sports and camaraderie, he spent his evenings officiating football, baseball, and basketball games. He mentored many young men entering the world of officiating, always leading by example with professionalism, fairness, and integrity.

Even after retirement, Leon couldn't sit still. He volunteered his time teaching computer classes to seniors, helping others stay connected in a fast-changing world. Whether it was a student, a colleague, or a stranger - Leon always showed up with humility and heart.

Leon's heart for service extended into the community. He brought joy to thousands each year through his leadership with Oshkosh's Celebration of Lights, working behind the scenes and donning the big red suit to make holiday magic happen. It was yet another way he gave of himself, living out his belief in generosity and connection.

As a husband, Leon had a sense of humor that didn't always land - but he always recovered thanks to Wendy's short-term memory and a wink of his twinkly blue eyes. He adored her endlessly and remained her biggest fan. Even in his final days, Wendy was his sunshine, and his daily mission was to make her smile during every visit.

As a father, Leon was encouraging, patient, and wise. He believed in teaching lessons that would stick - not through lectures, but with grace and purpose. He loved to travel out West with his boys and they always found plenty of adventures along the way. He supported his sons in all of their pursuits, and was always willing to help in any way he could. He instilled strength, humility, and love into his sons' lives by simply living it.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Beulah (Johnson) Thompson; his infant sister, Judith; and brothers Hollis and Richard Thompson. He is survived by his loving wife, Wendy; their children, spouses, and his beloved grandchildren.

A funeral service for Leon will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Martin Luther Church, 1526 Algoma Blvd. Oshkosh, WI 54901 officiated by Rev. Tom Voss. Visitation at the church will be held from 9:00 am until 10:30 am. Immediately following the funeral service, all are invited to Leon's celebration of life which will be held at LaSure's Banquet Hall, 3125 S. Washburn St, Oshkosh, WI 54904. Private interment will be held at Lake View Memorial Park.

His legacy lives on through the Leon Thompson Leadership Scholarship Fund, created to honor his lifelong dedication to nurturing leaders.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the scholarship that bears his name through the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce. Visit https://www.oshkoshchamber.com/events-programs/chamber-programs/leadership-oshkosh/leon-thompson-youth-leadership-scholarship/ or call (920) 303-2266 for more information.

P.S. A heartfelt thank you to all the individuals who cared for Pops along the way. First and foremost, his wife Wendy-her care and love for him never wavered. We're also deeply grateful to the staff at Compassus Hospice and the team at Eden Meadows in Oshkosh for their compassion and support. They allowed us to set the course, enabling Pops to remain comfortable yet alert, continuing to be the man we loved-with the twinkle in his eye and his signature wit-and fulfill his mission to bring smiles to everyone he encountered


Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home
402 Waugoo Ave.
Oshkosh WI 54901
(920) 231-1510