Donald Ruff Thompson

Some favorite memories of Don

Memories from John

Memories of Family Times

Thank you, Dad, for your environmental ethic. It has shaped who I am. Love, Sher

Uncle Don was a huge figure in our lives. We first met in 1972 at the Tulane house for a cook out and we felt instantly attached to the whole family. His enthusiasm for all things was incredible and his deep love and pride in his family knew no bounds. We had visits in Madison and in Chicago and he came to our home in Maine 3 times. He was always so excited about the progress we had made since his last visit. He would arrive bearing brats, cheese and beer and a little gemstone trinket he had made for Amanda. He would set his telescope up on the deck for wondrous night time viewing, and often insisted upon waking Amanda up for "something she just can't miss!" We drove hundreds of miles around Maine and, even though this was our home, he taught us many things we hadn't known or even thought about. Uncle Don made sure we had our first computer and first rifle...two things he said we shouldn't live without. The letters that came in the mail from time to time were filled with accounts of his busy life, Wall Street tips, news of family and funny little snippets. He wanted so badly for Richard to patrol the famous Birkie and that trip happened to the delight of both. It is very hard for me to grasp that this wonderful man who added such dimension to our lives is no longer with us. I will miss you, Uncle Don, and be forever grateful that you were in my life. You made your mark in the world! Much love and sympathy to all the family, Kathy