Stephen B. Thompson of Clayton died Friday following a battle with cancer. He was 68.
Born May 11, 1944, he was a son of the late Leonard "Tommy" and Mary Beadle Thompson. He married Diane Gerber on Jan. 2, 1983, and she survives.
Mr. Thompson graduated from Clayton High School and Purdue University. Upon graduation from Purdue, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served as an officer in Vietnam, earning the Bronze Star. Upon discharge from the Marines, he made a vow to not run another step and he honored that commitment.
After a successful career in the field of animal health and biotechology - including stints at Elanco, a division of Eli Lilly and Genentech - and assignments in Ohio, Illinois, Maryland, California, North Carolina ,and Kansas, he returned to Hendricks County and to the farm on which he grew up.
He enjoyed the outdoors and working with wood, and took pride in his yard and gardens. He enjoyed Purdue sports and cheering for whomever was playing Ohio State or IU. He was a long-time member of the Clayton Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed genealogy and spent much time exploring the Thompson family tree. The Thompson family reunion was always a highlight of the year and he and his wife were proud to host the 100th Thompson reunion in the summer of 2012.
Additional survivors include a daughter, Sheila (Brad) Lynch of North Las Vegas; a son, Stephen (Caitlin) of Denver, Colo.; grandchildren Philip and Zachary Lugris and Nathaniel and Chloe Lynch; and 10 nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death was a younger brother, Bill.
Private graveside services will be at Center Valley Cemetery in Belleville.
Calling is from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home in Plainfield.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Julian Center.
Online condolences may be sent to the Thompson family at www.hamptongentry.com.
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