Patrick Perry Thompson

Patrick Thompson of Sarasota, FL, and Rockford, IL, passed away May 23, 2026, at StoryPoint of Rockford, MI. He was raised by his sister, Virginia, brother-in-law Dick Baer, and grandmother, Minnie Thompson in Morton, IL. Pat rose from a difficult start to earn a BS in Mathematics and MS in Mathematics from Illinois State University and later a Doctorate in Education from Nova University. He started teaching at Richwoods High School in Peoria, IL, but the majority of his career was spent at Rock Valley College in Rockford, IL, culminating in many years as Vice President.

Pat married his high school sweetheart, Margie Jane, in 1961. Together they were a united and loving couple and partners through life. Pat was a member of and served on the boards of many service organizations, one of his favorites being the Moose Club of Anna Marie Island, FL. He was known for his sense of humor, listening skills, love of ice cream, cars, NFL, and golf. Pat was preceded in death by Margie in February 2026; daughter Marci, twin grandsons Owen Patrick and Dean Christopher; sisters Virginia (Dick Baer) and Betty (Debs Baldovin); and parents Carolyn and Francis Thompson. He is survived by daughter, Kelli Jo Thompson, her partner, Patrick Corcoran, grandson, Ivan, and many nieces and nephews, friends, and former colleagues.

A special thank you to Kaitlin and the staff in assisted living at Story Point for their attentive care and tolerance for Pat’s zingers. Thank you also to CorsoCare Hospice staff Mal, Andrea, Father Steve, Chuck, and others who worked with Pat over the last few years.

A memorial open house will be held at StoryPoint on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 1-4pm, 2885 10 Mile Rd NE, Rockford, MI 49341. Please join us for refreshments and memories.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Rock Valley College Foundation in memory of Dr. Patrick Thompson to establish an annual scholarship, 3301 N. Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL, 61114. Donations may also be sent online to the Dr. Patrick Thompson Memorial Fund at:

https://41860.thankyou4caring.org/RVCFoundation