Richard Thompson

October 31, 1934 – March 18, 2026

Richard Thompson passed away peacefully at his home in Grass Valley, CA, on March 18, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on October 31, 1934, Richard dedicated over four decades of his life as a surgical technician at Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, where his commitment to healthcare and community welfare left a lasting impact.

Richard was a man of deep faith and a long-standing member of the Grass Valley Seventh-Day Adventist Church. His kindness and strong-willed nature were evident in his daily interactions and his constant readiness to help others. He was not only hardworking but also cherished time with his family, who describe him as family-oriented with a strong faith.

An avid gardener, Richard cultivated a collection of over 75 Rhododendrons, a passion that brought him immense joy. He also loved traveling to the coast in his RV and valued the family vacations spent at the Redwood camp meeting, creating lasting memories with his children and grandchildren.

Richard is survived by his wife of 48 years, JoAnn Thompson; sons Craig Thompson, Steven Thompson-Whiting, and Jeremy Thompson; daughters Joy Ann Herrington, Bethany VonTalge, Shawna Savage, and Shanna Stone; along with 19 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alyce and Harry Thompson; brother, Mel Thompson; daughter, Kimber Lee Kawamoto; son, David Thompson-Whiting; and granddaughter, Susan Thompson.

A service to celebrate Richards life will be held on Saturday, April 18, at 3 PM at the Grass Valley Seventh-day Adventist Church, 12889 Osborne Hill Rd., Grass Valley, CA.

His life was a testament to his enduring spirit and loving heart, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.