Francis "Frank" Harold Thompson, age 83, of Pensacola, Florida passed away on Saturday December 28, 2019. Frank was born October 11, 1936 to the late Grace Thompson nee Carlin and Harold Thompson in Niagra Falls, NY.
Frank served in the United States Navy as an Aviation Structural Mechanic before retiring after 22 years of service. During his time in the military he accomplished so much and yet because of his humble nature, he rarely gloated to others about his experiences. Frank was a Vietnam War veteran. He served on the USS Okinawa amongst other ships and traveled all over the world during his time in the service. His Naval experience allowed him to see the world through a light that many never get a chance to see. After retiring from the Navy, he began working for the Department of Defense (D.O.D) as an Aviation Structural Mechanic. At this time, many helicopters were serviced and rebuilt at N.A.S. Pensacola, including the Presidential helicopters. Frank went on to work for the D.O.D. for many years until he retired. Bored in retirement, he decided to go back to work for Escambia county as a Heavy Equipment Truck Driver before retiring years later.
Frank was a humble and loving person; he was always selfless, thinking of others before himself. Frank was an active member of the Elks Lodge in many capacities over the years. Much of his time was spent there helping others and his community in any way that he could. He was also a member of the VFW. Frank had some small hobbies over the years including working on his model trains and cars, along with running a pressure washing business. However, he was a phenomenal baseball player. When he was a kid, he decided to enroll in the military to help his mother financially instead of pursuing baseball as a career. He dedicated the majority of his time to helping others and tending to his family. Above all, Frank loved to spend time with his family. To Frank, family meant everything. He loved, was, and is loved by many.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents Harold Thompson and Grace Carlin Thompson; sister, Grace Pastor and brother-in-law, Louis Pastor, Jr.
He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Denise Thompson; stepsons, Kyle Schmitz, Billy Booth, Mark Booth; stepdaughter, Treva Poston; step granddaughter, Katie Schmitz (Forrest Roach); step grandsons, Sawyer Roach, Cody Booth, Jason Booth, Oliver Schmitz, Michael Poston; step granddaughter, Rachel Poston; great step grandson, Harrison Booth; nephews, Louis (Cindy) Pastor III, Mark (Debbie) Pastor, Sr.; niece, Barbara (David) McArthur; and several great nieces and nephews.
A visitation for Frank will be held Tuesday, January 7, 2020 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Oak Lawn Funeral Home, 619 New Warrington Road, Pensacola, FL 32506. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 pm. A graveside service will immediately follow at Barrancas National Cemetery with full military honors.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.oaklawnfunerals.com for the Thompson family.
