29th Year
1997-2026
Over 2500 Photos
Obituary / Link
David J. Thompson
Passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025 after a long illness. Born on December 24, 1943 in Harrisburg, PA to Jane and Richard Thompson, the family relocated to the Rochester NY area when David was a toddler. After graduation from Wayne Central H.S. in 1962, David entered the U.S. Navy where he served 2 years Active and 4 years Reserve. Using the G.I. Bill, he graduated from Ferris State University, MI with a degree in Business in 1969. After completing his education, he returned to Ontario, N.Y to work for Sibley’s and Champion Products then landing a a position with The Eastman Kodak Company where he was a Manager for 20 years. During his life he was very active in mentoring his son’s lives in both Scouting and the Webster H. S. Marching Band. Taking an early retirement from Kodak he became a school bus driver for The Webster School District for 10 years. In 2014 he and wife Joan moved to The Villages, Florida after travelling all over the U.S. and Canada in their RV. David’s passion was being a Volunteer Firefighter with both Union Hill and Webster Fire Departments for over 53 years combined. He was a certified NYS Fire Police Officer. An avid collector of fire memorabilia, he owned his own firetrucks (1923 ALF Pumper, 1948 ALF 52 ft Tiller, 1966 ALF Pioneer Pumper) and numerous antique fire pieces, all housed on their Salt Rd farm. Joan was his collaborator and tiller person in his hobby. David was a charter member of the Webster Area Firemen’s Exempts and a charter member of the Rochester Area SPAMFAA, a national organization for the preservation of antique fire apparatus in America. David is predeceased by his father and mother, sister Torry, brother Peter. Survived by his wife of 52 years, Joan, sons Nathan and Nicholas (Maria), brother Stephan (Pam), grandchildren Alexander, Andrew, Adeline, Madison, beloved pet Paco and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws. Funeral services to be held at a later date in New York. As a staunch advocate for pet rescue, donations can be made to any pet rescue organization in his memory.