I thought of Russ today, Nov 21, 2020 quite out of the blue and went online to find this sad news but wonderful tribute.  I directed Russ in commercials for GM and others on many occasions.  We had a very friendly professional relationship, never more but always warm and always fun.  He was a treat to work with because he was so professional and prepared, easy-going and laced with charm.  While we did not stay in touch I have nothing but fond memories of him as one of my favourite people in the business.   My belated condolences to his family who I expect are chips off the old block when it comes to quality.  Bob Fleck

Dear Thompson family,

I'm saddened to learn of Russ' passing, earlier this year. 

But, the sadness has lightened a little as I now better know the story of his journey, enhanced by the great family photos that you've generously shared with those of us who grew to know him a little through the workplace.

Indeed, his was a life well lived - punctuated beautifully by the many images of times spent with his growing grand daughters.

Clearly, a proud Dad & Grand Dad.

If there's any truth to the phrase:

"Being professional is doing the things you love to do and do them well, even on the days that you don't want to do them."  then Russ was consistently one of the best I ever saw and had the privilege of working alongside in the CKFM production department.

He was a legendary, major leaguer

I first met Russ in the mid-70s while I was still a student. And, by the end of that decade I was lucky enough to join the team full time and eventually, worked alongside him on many commercial campaigns & program features that would often promote the "Sporting Life" on "The Other Side of the Fence".

I always enjoyed talking shop with him, listening to him tell about Dan's swim meets, his ongoing devotion to his roses, his travel adventures to Jackson Hole, Chamonix and Chateau de Charmes, for that perfect vintage of Chardonnay.

But, I truly got to appreciate this classy, elegant man even more when we were away from the studio and on the ball diamond playing some serious softball in the Toronto Press League during the summers in the 80s.

He fit right in with all that youthful testosterone on those fun, double header game days.

Who knew that this father figure of a man would bring his same professional passion to the playing field those summer weekends?

But, in time that was better understood when I grew to know that this former Montrealer's athletic hero was the legendary & fabled, Maurice "The Rocket" Richard.

It all began to make much more sense.

Yes, he was a great broadcaster - and he did it all in the analogue world of "live to air" broadcast performance which he approached precisely, just like an athlete. 

And, that made it easier to understand & appreciate the secret of his great success. 

Passionate, hard work that he proudly enjoyed with much humour, often self deprecating.

He was a wonderful role model for me and others like me during all those years at CKFM, and he'll be remembered & missed.

I'm sorry for your loss.

Dear Dan and family. Sincere condolences on Russ' passing. I will never forget his kindness to me as a young broadcaster at CKFM radio. Despite his stature as a legendary announcer, he always treated me as an equal and a friend. I saw Russ at work and at play, and he was always the same warm, genuine guy with a great sense of humour. Our fun times together playing fastball in Toronto and skiing in Colorado, Utah and Wyoming are among the fondest memories of my life.
Rest Well.

This man was one of the voices I will NEVER forget. I was just a fan but god speed Mr.Thompson and thanks for all those unforgettable afternoon drives home.

Dear Dan and family - I never had the pleasure of meeting your dad, but enjoyed listening to him on the radio in the good old days.  My condolences to the family.  Russ has "gone to his room".
Carol Spratt (Go Home Lake)

Russ was the inspiration for many young aspiring announcers back in the 1950's . He set the standard for us all to hope to be even half as polished, professional and gracious. We were in awe at how easy, smooth and effortless he was on the air. I was one of them and ultimately very privileged to spend 7 years working with Russ at 99.9CKFM.
It is a treasured memory. Like Ali in his field Russ during his career and life was also ....The Greatest!

A finer gentleman you will never find. To work with and learn so much from such a pro was an honour. 

I met Russ in 1974.  My first job in Toronto radio was afternoon/evening newscasts and Russ was the drive-home host. What a terrific man.

I will remember him fondly.

My heartfelt condolences to Mrs Thompson and family. Russ Thompson ( Boris) was my mentor and loyal friend for over fifty years. We worked together in the halcyon days of CKFM. He was the epitome of character and integrity, a true mensch.

This sad news found me in Buenos Aires and I was really shocked by it.  I had no idea Russ had been ill and my lasting image of him is someone just brimming with life.  We are all poorer when someone like Russ passes away.  He was the model for being a Professional Broadcaster.

I had the pleasure of working with Russ at CJEZ.  I don't think I have ever worked with a kinder man.  I enjoyed working with him and learned alot from him.  So sorry for your loss.

Dear Joan, Dan and family:
Sorry to hear of Russ's passing. Over 40 years ago, as a teenager I was skiing with Dan, and he mentioned that his dad worked in the radio biz. At that time I was investigating career options, and I wanted to be in broadcasting so badly.  With Dan's connection I had the pleasure of sitting in the studios of CKFM with Russ as he skillfully delivered one of his drive shows.  Did it make an impression?
You bet it did.  Thanks a million Russ.

Paul Fox

Joan, Dan, my thoughts are with you. I worked with Russ at 99.9 during much of the 80's and don't believe I ever met a classier person in broadcasting. So proud of his son's brilliant swimming career. He was a true gentleman and a great voice. RIP Russ. Brenda and I are saddened by the news.

Dear Joan and Dan. Sorry to hear of Russ's
passing.I have nothing but wonderful memories of our families enjoying life together when I was a young boy. Our enjoyment was always made a little better when Russ was present. My prayers go out to both of you. Don Andrews

I listened to Russ Thompson and many of the other announcers on CKFM etc and have many happy memories of Russ and the other announcers play much better music!!!

Just A Fan of The Local Radio Scene for many years!!!

Sorry to hear the news.
Russ was one of the Good Guys.
Rest in Peace my friend.

I worked with Russ at CJEZ from 1987-91. It was my first job in radio, and Russ was one of the kindest people I had the fortune to meet there. He would often let me sit in with him while he was on the air. We told stories, shared jokes and enjoyed the all-too-short time we worked together. Good-bye Russ.

Dear Mrs. Thompson So very sorry to learn of Russ passing. We worked together for a few years at CKFM, and he was a great inspiration to everyone in the industry and a good friend. He was, without doubt, one of the best.
Sincerely,

Russ was always the best voice on radio--so smooth and likable. I was a fan of his when he was on CKEY and I a good model for me when I got into radio in 1958 in Orillia. There was nobody better.

I only knew him from his announcing at CKFM, but what a great announcer. A wonderful voice and a nice relaxed and unhurried style from a time when everything seemed to move a little slower. R.I.P. Russ Thompson.

Dear aunt Joan, cousin Dan and family, Warmest thoughts of sympathy. I am deeply saddened to hear the passing of uncle Russ. May your memories of his life bring peace to your hearts. I remember uncle Russ' beautiful rose gardens on Laurentide as he took the time to name and explain the origin of each type of rose to me during my visit to your home. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. With love, Nicole Pearson, Carleton Place, ON.

Dear Joan and Dan, I'm sorry for your loss. Russ was a wonderful friend and God Father. Our families have wonderful memories and they will be cherished forever.
Bud (Moose) Andrews

Joan, Dan, Julie, Kaitlin and Megan - We will always remember Russ as a wonderful, jovial person with such a positive outlook on life. And, oh, how he enjoyed Kaitlin and Megan - Chris and Sue Lyons

Thanks for the memories during our days at CFRB/CKFM.  A brilliant career and incredible talent!!!

Prior Smith

My heart aches for you Joan - and Dan as well.  I have such good memories of the Thompson family in my life.  I know that Russ will be sorely missed by all of you.  He was such a good friend to me.  Take good care of each other.  I care. Deaney Andrews-Lee, Seminole, Florida

Dearest Mrs. Thompson, Dan, Julie, Kaitlin and Megan, we are so sorry for your loss.  You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.  Love Lynne and Brett

Dan, Mrs. Thompson and family. So sorry for your loss. I have lots of great memories from growing up in Don Mills and having you as friends and neighbours. My thoughts are with you.

Deepest sympathy on your loss. Dan, and family, my thoughts are with you.
Norm

Dan, Julie, Kaitlin and Megan, we are sending our love and warm thoughts to you all.  May you find comfort in your many memories of your Dad and Grandpa. Love Gary, Laurie, Ryan, Makena and Annie.  xoxox

Joan, 

May love and your beautiful memories of your long life together help you through your sorrow.

Thinking of you xoxoxo always,

Dear Dan,
We are so sorry to learn of your father's passing.  We can still remember meeting him for the first time at your wedding... and the sound of his lovely radio voice at the reception. We send our deepest condolences to you, Jules, Megan, Kaitlin and your mother.

Donna and Peter

OBITUARY

Russell Thompson

18 August, 1934 – 16 January, 2017

Thompson Funeral Home

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