Dennis E. Thompson

After a short bout with cancer, Dennis E. Thompson, 59, of Greencastle, has moved to his Heavenly home. He was surrounded by loved ones as the Lord called him to his eternal rest on Thursday, July 4, 2013.

Dennis entered this life on Nov. 11, 1953, being born to Everett and Josephine Spina Thompson in Lynn, Mass. He graduated from Essex Agricultural and Technical Institute in 1971.

He considered it his duty and a privilege to serve his country, serving six years in the United States Marine Corp and two years in the Indiana National Guard.

Dennis married Wanda Sue Cole on Dec. 29, 1978. In addition to Susie, Dennis is survived by two daughters, Tabitha Wells and husband Kurt of Monrovia and Tiffany Thompson of Greencastle; a sister, Lisa Hickel and husband James of Scottsdale, Ariz. He was especially proud to be a grandpa to Elijah Gibson and Keegan Wells. Dennis' extended family includes Allen and Norma Asbury; nieces, Christy Currier and Judy Anderson of Greencastle; and nephews, Jason Asbury, Jeremy Asbury and Flint Anderson.

It was during Dennis' second enlistment that he accepted Jesus as Savior and gave his soul to God. Dennis loved the Lord and strived to live his life in a manner that was pleasing to God. His various avenues of service included personal witness, teaching and preaching.

"Big D" found a niche at Greencastle's All-American Karate School. He greatly respected the style of teaching and philosophy of Sensei Steve and Niki St. Pierre. Dennis earned his black belt in 2009 and enjoyed taking the weekly kickboxing, karate and Zumba classes. He particularly liked working with the children in class.

Since moving to Indiana in 1987, Dennis has been employed by Sherwin -- Williams and Concept Engineering. Presently, "DT" was employed, since 1999, as a maintenance technician at the Crown Equipment facility.

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents and his brother David, who passed on June 20 of the same type of cancer.

Dennis was a man of integrity, a loving husband and father and a faithful friend. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him that will never be filled.

A Celebration of Dennis' life will be held on Tuesday, July 9 at 7 p.m. at Hopkins-Rector Funeral Home, with Rev. Keith Davidson officiating. Military Honors will be accorded. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4 p.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

The family has requested memorials in Dennis' memory be directed to Seedline International, 5409 South County Road 250 East, Greencastle, IN 46135.

Rest peacefully warrior.

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.Hopkins-Rector.com.