Robert C. Thompson
April 13, 1929 - September 25, 2025
Bob was born in Valparaiso, Indiana to Gladys Sherburne Thompson and Granville Curtis Thompson. They predecease him, as does a sister, Doreene Delight Thompson Nelson.
From his father, a civil engineer, Bob inherited a deep interest in and keen aptitude for design and building, a hobby of photography, and an affinity for the outdoors. His mother fostered his appreciation of the performing arts. Shortly after earning a degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, Bob moved to Colorado, where his professional career included associations with Behrent Engineering, Coors Brewery, Rocky Flats, and Rocky Mountain Arsenal. One notable project was his design of the heating system for architect Charles Deaton’s notable “Sculptured House.”
In 1961, Bob married Joanne Van Kirk Thompson. They were married for 44 years, until her death in 2006. Together they embraced all aspects of the outdoors--particularly camping, hiking, and skiing. They enjoyed traveling, and regularly attended performances of Denver Symphony Orchestra, later reorganized as Colorado Symphony.
Bob was a Bonfils Blood Center “Donor of Distinction,” and volunteered countless hours to the Channel 6 fundraising auction and the annual JeffCo 4-H Tree Sale. However, his primary interest was woodworking, at which he remarkably excelled.
Bob’s magnum opus is the home he built on Lookout Mountain. Modest in size, it is surrounded by pine trees, and visited daily by birds and squirrels, fox, deer, elk—and recently, for only the second time since 1969, bears. The family hopes the weather will remain warm enough to host a gathering of remembrance there in the very near term.
Bob is survived by his sons John (Kris) and Robert (Veronica), grandchildren Jordan (Kaylee), Olivia and Elizabeth, and great grandchild Joseph. He is remembered fondly by his nieces, nephew and their families for his dry humor, and as determined, resilient, and passionate about progressive ideals.
Donations
A contribution to the public radio or television station of your choosing, or to Cartology.org is a meaningful way to honor Bob’s life.
Remembrances may be sent to the Thompson Family c/o John Thompson and Kris Schindler at 1058 Madison St. Denver, CO 80206.
Photos of Bob
