Gregory John Thompson

Greg Thompson, a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather and avid outdoorsman, passed away on July 28, 2024 at the age of 70. He lived life to the fullest and was respected and admired by all who knew him.

Greg spent much of his youth in Vancouver and North Vancouver. He became a skilled plumber and co-owned a successful mechanical contracting company based in Nanaimo, BC.

Greg was an extraordinary outdoorsman who displayed a deep love, passion and respect for nature. He was an active member of several outdoor organizations, including the Parksville / Qualicum Fish and Game Club, Nanaimo Fish and Game Club, Steelhead Society of BC, BC Wildlife Federation, Ducks Unlimited Canada, the Square Tailers Club. Fall was his favourite season as it was a time when he could fully immerse himself in his outdoor pursuits.

Greg was a man of many of many passions. As a culinary enthusiast, he loved cooking and savouring the delicacies he proudly brought home from his hunting and fishing expeditions. A history buff, Greg was a voracious reader with an extensive library of history books, DVDs and memorabilia collected from travels across Europe, North and South America and the Middle East. He was particularly well-versed on the topics of WWI and WWII.

Music played a significant role in Greg’s life and Rock ’n Roll was his favourite genre. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of bands, songs and release dates and watched several music performances, both live and previously recorded on DVDs. Greg was also an avid movie watcher, amongst his favourites being “The Longest Day”, “Bridge over the River Kwai”, “Saving Private Ryan”, “Unbroken”.

Greg is survived by his loving wife, Barb, with whom he had just celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary on July 25th. He was a devoted father to Tom (Janine) and their children (Reid, Tory and Cole); Krista (Jeff) and their children (Haley and Madison); and stepfather to Jennifer (Brodie) and Ken (Gitana) and their children (Lois, Jack and Vilius). Greg is also survived by his younger brother, Don.

Greg’s passing has left a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him. As we bid farewell, we take comfort in knowing that he is now free to fly with the eagles and embark on eternal hunting and fishing adventures.

Rest in Peace, Greg. Your spirit and passion for life will continue to inspire us all.

Sincere thanks and gratitude is expressed to the nursing and care staff and doctors of Arrowsmith Lodge, a long term care facility in Parksville, BC. They showed love and comfort, compassion and kindness to him for the entire 3 plus years he was a resident there.

A Celebration of Greg’s Life will be held in the Spring/Summer of 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations would be gratefully accepted to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.