Obituary of Russell T. Thompson

Russell Theodore Thompson, 55, known simply as “Russ” to his friends, died unexpectedly April 23, 2018 at his home in Weathersfield, Vermont.

Russell is survived by his beloved daughter, Jessica E. Thompson; his partner, Tonia Bushway and her daughter, Toshia; his sister, Deborah Ripa; his nephew, Nicholas Ripa; and his step-children from a previous relationship, Jamie, Tatiana, and Jordan. He is predeceased by his father, Samuel R. Thompson and his mother, Shirley W. Thompson.

Russell was born in New Haven, CT on August 24, 1962 and later attended Lyman Hall High School in Wallingford. After graduating, he went on to operate a successful painting business and later joined the Connecticut Carpenter’s Unit Local 24, which he was a member of until he passed. Russell welcomed his beautiful daughter and the most important person in his life, on July 11, 1992.

Russell was a devoted father and loyal friend. Though he had traditional values, he was not a reserved man and the sound of his laughter could be heard from a mile away. He had a gusto for life and his enthusiasm was infectious – a quality he so kindly passed down to his daughter, Jessica.

Russell was an avid cook and baker. He enjoyed creating elaborate feasts for special occasions, or just because it was Tuesday. He had a giving nature, and made sure no one ever went hungry. He loved to spend time in the outdoors, whether it was harvesting maple syrup with his daughter, or ice fishing in the lakes of Vermont’s Green Mountains. He was a strong man and a skilled builder who could fortify a house as well as build a beautiful piece of furniture. Russell was so much to so many people, and he will be dearly missed by all.