Richard L. Thompson

1945 - 2024

ELLICOTTVILLE - Richard L. Thompson, 78, of Ellicottville, passed away peacefully Sunday (Sept. 29, 2024) at Olean General Hospital, following a brief illness.

Born Oct. 16, 1945, in North Tonawanda, he was the son of the late Frank and Leanora Kluge Thompson. He was married Dec. 25, 1964, to the former Joan Nowark, who predeceased him in 2019 after 54 years of marriage.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving from 1964–1967.

Richard and his wife Joan lived life on their own terms. Richard was an avid gun and target shooting enthusiast. He loved sitting on his front porch and enjoying the critters that called his land home. He enjoyed visits from friends and family alike. Richard's dogs, Tristan, Yukie and Timber; and his cat, Fred, provided much love and companionship.

Surviving are four daughters, Michele Bridges, Kelly Dolan, Nancy (Eric) Westman and Kim (Mike Jensen) Thompson; a son, Rick Thompson; six grandchildren, Rachel Organski, Brienna (Wiatt) Hedrick, Eric (Megan) Westman Jr., Bryce Thompson, Jesse Thompson and Abigail Thompson; nine great-grandchildren, Brendon and Sienna Wallens, Benson and Parker Hedrick, Alexis, Eric III and Eastlyn Westman, and Austin and Gus Wynn; and his #1 ex-son-in-law, Randy Organski.

He was predeceased by a son, Frank Thompson; and two sons-in-law, William Dolan and Terry Bedell.

There will be no visitation. A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family and will be announced.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the O'Rourke & O'Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River St., Salamanca.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.