Royal Thompson

The most amazing son, brother, husband, dad, grandpa, and friend passed away June 30th, 2011. Born January 22nd, 1929 to Francis and Eva LaVern Thompson. Married Frances Pendrak on September 25th, 1947 in Coalville, UT. Lefty and Frances were a great team who worked hard to take care of their family and always enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. Lefty was a devoted husband and loving caretaker throughout Frances extended illness until her passing on August 19th, 1982.

Lefty was born and raised in Park City, UT where he has extremely fond memories of his childhood and the lifelong friendships he developed there. Lefty was on the football team, basketball team and played in the band at Park City High School and graduated in 1947. As a young man Lefty worked in the Silver King mine. In 1950 he moved to Centerville and began working for Flying J (formerly known as Beeline, Frontier and Husky Oil). In 1956 the family moved to Bountiful where Lefty continued to work for Flying J; retiring in 1988 after 38 years.

Leftys biggest pleasures and greatest joy in life were his family. He spent many hours attending EVERY activity his grandchildren were involved in. Lefty enjoyed passing down his hard learned wisdom and knowledge. He always took time to listen and help with the big and little problems of his family. Lefty always made sure that he told them he loved them at the end of every visit. He was the most compassionate care giver to his mother, wife, and brother, Francis, with whom he had a special bond.

Lefty was kind, thoughtful, selfless, and had great integrity. He will be remembered for his outstanding work ethic, loyalty, and providing his family with love, support, security, and FUN. Leftys children and grandchildren have very special memories of East Canyon trips, Tuesday nights at Classic Skating, building stuff in his garage, golfing, and long talks about life.

In his most recent years Lefty derived much happiness and companionship from spending time with his loving companion LaVoyle. They enjoyed dancing, golfing, and traveling together. Lefty had many wonderful friendships that he cherished, especially his life-long friend and travel buddy Sam Lee. Lefty had great neighbors that he was very thankful for.

Lefty LOVED life! He knew how to work hard and how to have fun. He always said I want to live until I die and he sure did! We love you Grandpa Lefty and will cherish ALL of our memories!

Survived by son; Michael, daughters, Kim (Ron) Bullock, Ann (Parri) Bullock, grandchildren; Shea (Nate) Nixon, Dylan (Emily) Bullock, Lyndie Bullock, Riley Bullock; great grandchildren; Brock, Kiley, and Luke Nixon. Preceded in death by his parents, wife, Frances, brothers Max, Guy, and Francis Thompson.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 7, 2011 at 11:00 am at the Bountiful 27th Ward Chapel, 1145 N. 200 E. Friends and family may call Wednesday evening from 6-8 pm at Russon Brothers Bountiful Mortuary, 295 N. Main and Thursday morning from 9:45-10:45 am at the church prior to the services. Interment-Bountiful City Cemetery.