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William Herman Thompson, Punkin Chunkin co-founder

November 7, 2017

William Herman Thompson of Milford passed away at Delaware Hospice Monday, Nov. 6, 2017.

Bill, aka "Broadog," was born Dec. 14, 1946, in Birch Tree, Mo. He worked as a union plumber, eventually owning his own business installing septic systems and wells.

Bill was one of the founders of Punkin Chunkin, which returned over a million dollars to scholarships, local charities, and St. Jude's Hospital. During his tenure with Punkin Chunkin he was a seven-time world champion. He enjoyed being a part of that event that not only entertained spectators, but gave back to the community.

He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, sailing his sailboat, wood carving, riding motorcycles, shooting, re-enacting the living history during the 1720-1845 time period, and collecting a variety of items.

Bill is survived by his wife, Dawn Deschaine-Thompson. He is also survived by his children, William C. Thompson of Milton, Matthew Thompson and his wife Robbin of Milford, Holly Strickland and her husband Justin of Camden, Christine Corwin and her husband Ron of San Antonio, Texas and Jason Vicidomini of Harrington; his grandchildren, Emmy Strickland of Camden, Brendan and Hannah Corwin of San Antonio, Miranda Krauss and her husband Brandon of Milford, and Richard Smith and his wife Rachel of Lincoln; his siblings, Shannon Thompson and his wife Linda of Georgetown, Harry Thompson and his wife Allanora of Georgetown, Toni Gallegan and her husband John of Lincoln, Mark Thompson and his wife Kathy of Rehoboth Beach, Steve Thompson and his wife Renee of Lewes, and James R. Thompson Jr. of Orlando, Fla.; and many nieces, nephews, and loving friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herman Ridley Thomas, his adopted father, James R. Thompson, and his mother, Mary Joyce Weeks Thompson.

A graveside service will be held at Bivalve United Methodist Church Cemetery Thursday, Nov. 9, at 1 p.m. Interment to follow. Those who plan to attend are asked to bring a pumpkin with a message on it for Bill.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.

For condolences please visit www.rogersfhmilford.com.

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