Pete Leroy Thompson Sr.

Pete Leroy Thompson Sr., 82, of Peoria, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on February 22, 2025. Pete was born on April 2, 1942, in Columbus, Ohio to parents Pete Thompson and Viola Green. He was raised in Ohio by his mother, Viola, and his stepfather, Joe Kelley. Pete was dedicated to the love of his life, Elaine, whom he met and fell in love with during an event held by the USO in 1963. Pete married Elaine Rupert in Peoria, Illinois on August 31, 1965. They later moved to Chillicothe, where they raised three children. Together, Pete and Elaine lived a life filled with love and happiness. Pete proudly served his country in the 101st Airborne Infantry as a paratrooper with the United States Army. He was stationed in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He will always be remembered by his family and friends for his patriotism and the respect he had for his fellow veterans. After serving in the Army, Pete became a long standing and proud member of the Teamsters Union Local 627. He dedicated 39 years in the transportation industry as a professional truck driver. Pete always put family first, working long hours and extra time to provide for his family. He worked many years at Tobler Transfer, where he cultivated friendships that lasted until his final days. Eventually, Pete shifted gears and began working for PDC. He happily dedicated the remainder of his career at PDC before retiring in 2007. Pete enjoyed any activity that involved the outdoors. He would often be seen tending to his home garden or playing with his two dogs, Bridget and Zoey. He was an avid softball player and loved boating, fishing, and golfing with his sons. Pete always kept score while golfing and, coincidentally, always "won." As often as possible, Pete and his family would take trips back home to Columbus, Ohio to spend time with family and friends. Pete wore a constant smile on his face and never failed to bring joy and laughter to everyone around him. Pete was preceded in death by his parents, Pete Thompson and Viola Kelley; stepfather, Joe Kelley; grandmother, Alice Fetter; sisters, Sandy Thompson and Glenna Spradling; brother in law, Rick Mehl; and his grandson, Josh "J.T." Thompson. Left to cherish Pete's memory are his beloved wife of almost 60 years, Elaine Thompson; sons, Pete Thompson Jr. (Lorri) and Joe Thompson (Katie Stephens); daughter, Kathy Lowder (Dave); sisters, Carol Mehl (Rick) and Linda Baker (John); one and only “favorite” niece, Tonja Forsberg (Ken); and numerous nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.” The Thompson family wishes to personally thank Pete's OSF Hospice nurse, Ed, for his care and compassion during this difficult time. A visitation will take place in the chapel of Schmidt-Haller Burial and Cremation Services on March 7, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 P.M. Schmidt-Haller Burial and Cremation Services has been entrusted with the arrangements. Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.SchmidtHaller.com

Pete Leroy Thompson Sr.

April 2, 1942 - February 22, 2025