Robert Melton Thompson

Robert M. Thompson

Robert M. Thompson of Las Vegas passed away March 16, 2021 at home from cancer. Bob was born July 12, 1932 in Trinidad, CO, to John E. and L. Bernice Thompson. He had a lifelong love of cars and planes, a love he passed on to his children. Bob was a graduate of Ventura Junior College. In 1952 he joined the Air Force with the goal of becoming a pilot. Multiple deployments and opportunities allowed steady advancement in his career. “Tommy” graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1963 with a degree in air science. He was selected to attend the “Wild Weasel” School at Nellis AFB, part of the 57th Fighter Weapons Wing, and trained in the F-105-F. Deployment to Thailand came in 1966 where he flew 110 combat missions, receiving many commendations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross four times, and eleven air medals. After retirement in 1973 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, he taught private pilot students, later becoming a partner in the Las Vegas Flying Club and Charter Service. Bob enjoyed traveling, reading, hunting, writing about his life, and researching his family’s ancestors. He was able to build and fix almost anything. Patriotic, patient, and calm, he was a man of few words, but knew he had been blessed with a long life filled with contentment and love. Robert is survived by sons R. Kenon (Julie), Jeffrey (Jeannie), Daniel (Esther), their mother Emonell, four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, brother John (Carolyn), step-daughter Kimberly Christy, and wife Penny. Robert will receive full military honors at his service May 26, 2021, at 12:40 p.m., the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veterans Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005.