Gene Thompson

Curtis Gene Thompson, age 80, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2020 at his home in San Angelo, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Kathleen Thompson and sister Susan Ryder. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marilyn Beaston Thompson of San Angelo TX; daughter Anessa Goodlett of Seattle WA; and son Patrick Thompson of Savannah GA. Gene was born in Snyder, Texas and growing up he lived in 5 different states. After graduating from Durango High School in 1958, he joined the US Forest Service and Colorado Dept. of Highways while attending Fort Lewis College, earning a degree in mathematics. Feeling the call to serve his country, he joined the United States Air Force in 1966, becoming a commissioned officer and proudly defending the nation as a member of the Strategic Air Command. He served in various operational, staff and leadership positions both stateside and overseas in Japan, Vietnam, and Turkey. Along the way he earned a Master of Science degree in Guidance and Counseling from Creighton University in Omaha, NE. After 21 years of service to his nation he retired from the Air Force as a Major, but continued to serve the community as a social worker, a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, part time substitute teacher and supporter/lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Gene was always one to tell a joke, story, or lend a hand when needed. He will be remembered as a husband, father, proud Air Force veteran and patriot. A graveside memorial service will be held at Greenmount Cemetery, Durango on July 22, 2021 at 11 A. M. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Habitat to Humanity or the VFW.