Charles L. Thompson

Charles L. "Chuck" Thompson, 59, of Milton-Freewater and formerly of La Grande, died July 17 at his home.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date in the Union Cemetery.

Chuck was born Feb. 23, 1949 to Joseph F. and Lucille E. England Thompson in Prairie City. He grew up in the logging town of Bates.

At the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Army serving in Vietnam. After his discharge from the service, he lived in La Grande where he worked for Lynch Motors for three years. On Aug. 27, 1969, he married Lucy Payne in Union.

Chuck worked for the Oregon Department of Transportation, starting in engineering and later moving to bridges and maintenance. He retired after 30 years. The couple lived in many areas of the state due to his occupation.

The Thompsons moved to Milton-Freewater on Feb. 4, 2007. He enjoyed hunting and camping, but loved his family and friends most of all.

He is survived by his wife, Lucy Thompson at the home; son, John P. Thompson of Thermopolis, Wyo.; a granddaughter; four sisters, Eva Penddzich of South Milwaukee, Wis., Marlene Woodley of Prairie City, Linda Kuchler of La Grande and Pattydae Henry of Chama, N.M.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Gary Thompson; and a sister, Frances Landers.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Walla Walla Community Hospice or the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.