Everett Thompson
THOMPSON, EVERETT S. (Ev to his many friends and colleagues), age 90, passed away at home on March 6, 2015 at Porter Hills Retirement Community in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was born May 19, 1924 in Detroit to the late Everett & Virginia Thompson. Following his high school graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in the Signal Corps during WWII. On returning from service, he graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Civil Engineering and Public Administration. While there, he met and married his sweetheart, Janet. Everett began his career as a public adminstrator, ultimately becoming city manager in St. Johns, Michigan before joining Williams & Works in 1957. Over the next 25 years, he and his brother-in-law, Ted Williams, built the firm into a leading engineering and surveying company that was nationally recognized for their innovation and service. Later in his career, he continued to be part of the engineering community as a management consultant, helping other firms to prosper. He was respected by his peers - serving as a leader of professional organizations at the state and national levels. He was president of ACEC and NSPE/PEPP. Everett had a passion for fishing and golfing, both of which he enjoyed the most while sharing them with friends and family. He was an avid woodworker, a skill he learned from his father growing up and one that he shared with others. His grandchildren are the main beneficiaries of his woodworking passion, spending many hours in "Grandpa's Workshop" building projects. Everett was active in the local community through his service in Rotary, township planning commissions and other organizations. He and Janet, were also long-time members of Ada Congregational Church. Everett will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 65 years, Janet Thompson; children Doug (Alix) Thompson, Ginny (Andy) Rundquist, Bruce (Brenda) Thompson and Laura Thompson (daughter-in-law). Surviving grandchildren include Tara Thompson, Jeff (Nathalie) Thompson, Steve Thompson, Emily Shachter, Ben Shachter, Cameron Thompson and Max Thompson. He was preceded in death by his son Dan Thompson, brother Otto and sisters Eleanor, Mildred and Helen Jane. Visitation will be held Tuesday at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home from 4-7pm. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday March 11, 2015 at Ada Congregational Church, 6330 Ada Dr. SE, Ada, MI 49301 with Rev. Gary Burdick officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Everett's name, to Ada Congregational Church. The family would like to thank the Spectrum Health Hospice and Palliative Care team for their loving support.
1924 - 2015 (90 years)
