Obituary of Milton J. Thompson

Milton J. Thompson, Jr. Milton J. Thompson, Jr., age 79, of Rome, passed away peacefully, with his family at his side, October 30, 2010 He was born January 24, 1931, in Rome, the son of Milton J., Sr., and Delma Coleman Thompson. Milton was united in marriage to the former Michalena "Mickey" Montalbano, on November 22, 1952, in the Church of St. John the Baptist; a blessed marriage of almost 58 years. He was an electronics engineer at Griffiss Air Force Base, retiring after many years of service. He also taught adult education at Rome Free Academy and served as chief engineer at WRNY radio station for 16 years. Milton proudly served his country in the U. S. Navy during the Korean War. He was a member of the Church of St. John the Baptist. He was former president of the Rome Boat Club. Milton was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He lived life with an adventurous, inventive and artistic spirit. He earned his pilot's license and often pushed his talents to the limit as a test pilot. He also enjoyed building and flying remote control airplanes. He was and accomplished artist and sculptor and jewelry maker. Milton is survived by his beloved wife, "Mickey"; three daughters and sons in law, Kathleen and Rex Redden of Rome, Denise and Jesse Armstrong of E. Amherst, NY, and Julie and Dan Harmon of Phoenix, AZ; a son and daughter in law, Milton J., III and Michelle Thompson of Peoria, AZ; grandchildren, Jennifer, Luke, Matthew, Emily, Liz, Kate and Max; great grandchildren, Tyler, Lilly, Dominick and Linc; his dog "Spike"; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a grandchild, Jamie. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 9:15 AM, from Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, and at 10:00 AM at the Church of St. John the Baptist. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home, Tuesday 4 to 8 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Please offer on line tributes or light a candle at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com