ARTHUR C. ‘ART’ THOMPSON, 84, a longtime Sedro-Woolley resident, passed away at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon on Wednesday August 6, 2003. Art was born on February 11, 1919 in Burlington, WA, the son of Carl E. & Stella A. Thue Thompson. He was raised and attended school in Sedro-Woolley, graduating from SWHS. In high school Art was active in school activities. He played in the band, was class treasurer and was captain of the football team.
During WW II Art served in the U.S. Marines. After his discharge he returned to Sedro-Woolley and worked at Northern State Hospital as a carpenter. In the late 1940’s he went to California where he worked at a redwood mill in Scotia, CA and played music with local bands. It was while playing music that he met he future wife, Ginger Hemphill, who was from the Bow area. They were married in Allen, WA in 1951 and made their home in California until 1958 when they returned home to Sedro-Woolley.
Art once again worked as a carpenter at Northern State until its closure, but continued building homes in the area for several years.
Art loved music and played drums with several bands around the Skagit Valley, including Ernie Tyree and Harold Knudson for many years. He especially loved Jazz and Big Band era music. But most important to Art was his love for his family
He was a member of the American Legion, the Elks Lodge, the Masonic Lodge and the Musicians Union.
Art is survived by his wife of 52 years, Ginger at the family home in Sedro-Woolley. His daughter and son-in-law, Rosalee & Doug Friedl of Burlington. 1 grandson, Scott Friedl of Burlington and 1 step-granddaughter, Traci Friedl of Olympia. A brother and sister-in-law, Fred & Helen Thompson in California and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son, Gordy Thompson.
A Life Celebration for Art will be held on Saturday August 16, 2003 at 2:00 PM at Lemley Chapel in Sedro-Woolley. Mr. Mike Milnes officiating. Cremation and services under direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley. Share memories of Art and sign the online guest register at www.lemleychapel.com