Samuel Russell Thompson, 75, of Wallingford, departed this life on Thursday, January 5, 2012 at the VA Hospital in West Haven. He was the loving husband of the late Shirley (Wardle) Thompson who he met as a girl in the second grade and fell in love with in the fourth grade. Together they created wonderful memories that will always be theirs. Sam was born on April 29, 1936, in New Haven, CT, a son of the late Martha T. Campbell and Burton Thompson. Sam was most proud to be the grandson of Samuel C. Russell who loved and raised him well. He was a US Army Veteran with service beginning 1953 and ending spring of 1959 at Depot Ingrades France. It was this service to his country that gave him the love of world wide travel and most especially visits to France. Employed by Ultramatic Equipment Company and others as a salesman most of his life, his talent and technical abilities related to the deburring, and vibratory finishing industry. He was a member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. After retirement Sam was fortunate to find a flexible position with Wallingford Auto Park where he formed a close bond with John and others. His love for the outdoors lead him to Vermont and hunting with friends. In his later years playing golf. Sam's Masonic affiliation was of great pride, and he was a Past Master of Compass Lodge #9 Wallingford. Sam will be most remembered for his "gift of gab" friendships formed and relationships cherished throughout his life. He will be sadly missed by his children, Russell T. Thompson and Debra T. Ripa and her husband Guy, all of Wallingford; "the reward for raising his children" two grandchildren, Nicholas A. Ripa of Wallingford and Jessica E. Thompson of Proctorsville, Vermont, and his friend Sharon Anderson. Relatives and friends may call at B.C. Bailey Funeral Home, 273 South Elm Street,Wallingford on Tuesday, January 10th from 9:00 - 10:45 AM. A funeral service led by the Rev. Dean O. Warburton will follow at 11:00 AM. Burial with military honors will be at the CT State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown. It is suggested that gifts in his memory be made to the Masonic Charity foundation, P.O. Box 70, Wallingford, CT 06492. To leave a message of hope and remembrance or for directions please visit www.BCBailey.com