Raymond C. Thompson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Raymond C. Thompson, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather and dedicated hardwood lumber inspector, who left us peacefully on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the age of 90. He was born on March 8, 1935, in Chicago, IL. He was raised by Robert and Lucille Durand who have preceded him in death. Ray proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War from 1954 through 1958 where he traveled through much of Europe. His service to our country was one of his most cherished accomplishments in his life. On March 28, 1958, Ray married Marie E. Morrey at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Walkerton, IN. She preceded him in death on December 21, 2008. He is also preceded in death by his daughter, Sharon M. Schadek, who died on July 6, 2023. Ray spent his professional life as owner of the Bargain Center in Koontz Lake, IN and working in the lumber business where he retired at the age of 84 from Holmes & Co., in Columbia City, IN where he earned a reputation for his expertise in kiln drying lumber and commitment to quality in the lumber industry. His hobbies include fishing, taking care of his lake properties, and spending time with his family and friends. He was a member of Saint Michaels's Catholic Church in Plymouth, IN and the American Legion in Walkerton, IN. Ray is survived by his two daughters, Patricia A. (Doyle) Minix, Kathleen D. Thompson and Son-In-Law, David Schadek, grandchildren Brian (Melissa) Minix, Betsy Minix, David (Carrie) Schadek, Brandon (Susie) Schadek, and Derek (Nicole) Schadek, and great-grandchildren Carter Minix, Jayla Staten, Layla Staten, Declan Minix, Patrick Minix, Connor Minix, David Schadek, Taylor Schadek, Ryleigh Schadek, Levi Schadek, Ally Schadek, Zoey Schadek, and Owen Schadek, who will carry forward the warmth and values he instilled in them. He was a man of simple pleasures, enjoying the company of friends and family and embracing the beauty of life in the small moments. Ray's life will be celebrated with a Mass held at 10:30am Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 4916 Trier Rd., Fort Wayne, with a visitation for one hour prior to the mass. Burial will take place at a later date at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens in Niles, MI. Arrangements were made at Divine Mercy Funeral Home-Cedar Canyons, Huntertown, IN. In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be left at www.divinemercyfuneralhome.org. As we remember Ray, we find comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to live on through his daughters and all those whose lives he touched. His presence will be deeply missed, but the kindness and wisdom he shared will forever be cherished. To send a flower arrangement in memory of Raymond C. Thompson, please click here to visit our sympathy store. To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Raymond C. Thompson, please click here to visit our sympathy store.