Obituary of Parnell Talmadge Carl Thompson

PARNELL TC THOMPSON 85 years old born Dec. 6, 1923 in East Grand Forks, Minnesotta to Carl and Minnie Thompson. He attended East Grand Forks school system and graduated from highschool in 1940 when he was 17 years old. After highschool, Parnell attended 2 years at a vocational school in Minneapolis, Minnesotta and then worked in Nebraska for 2 more years. After that, Parnell enlisted in the Army Air Corp, went to Califiornia to earn his pilot wings, and then was sent to Europe. He dropped troop carriers and had many experiences as a young serviceman trying to survive the perils of WWII. During his time in Europe, he transported POW's to the Nurenberg Trials. Parnell served for 4 years and during his service, he lost numerous friends and considered himself lucky to be a survivor. In 1946 Parnell was discharged and then began his civilian life, enrolling as a student at the University of North Dakota. After completing 2 years, he then transfered to Washington State College to study forestry. Parnell married the love of his life, Runa Johnson on Sept. 6, 1949. They raised two children, Ronald and Deborah and dedicated themselves to being good parents. The family settled in Seattle since Parnell began a successful career at Boeing as a supervisor. After 36 years, he retired in 1989. Parnell and Runa then enjoyed many years of retirement traveling in their motorhome. One of their favorite trips was to Alaska where they fished, explored the countryside and enjoyed their friends. They also lived in Arizona during the winter months and were very involved with their children and grandchildren. Parnell made a huge difference in the lives of his family, he touched the hearts of many, and he loved life. We all loved him and will always miss his wisdom, humor and strength. A TRIBUTE TO MY FATHER, PARNELL THOMPSON by his daughter, Debbie My father...our support, our guide, our handyman, our automotive mechanic, our WSU scholar, and our HERO. There is even more to may dad than meets the eye. Dad was a dreamer. He had dreams to become a pilot, a college graduate, to build a cabin on a lake, to be a good husband, father, grandfather and friend. His dreams became a reality. You knew Dad's values through his actions, not his words; although his advice rings often in my own life today. Some of my favorites: "Get a good education. It's the best investment you can ever make. You can never take away a good education" "Always save each month and buy only what you can afford. Even if it's $5 a month, save." "Be there for your family. If you're not there when they need you, they won't ask you again." Last, "When working, always do more than expected. Make it difficult for you to be replaced." My father was a gentleman's gentleman. A respectful man with impecable manners, he taught us well through his example. Ladies were first, he held the door open for others and he was very throughful in his day to day life. In the Alzheimer's wing of the Life Care Center in Federal Way, he would open the doors for the nurses, doctors and staff while they took care of him. With a wink of an eye, he always gave a compliment to someone he would encounter. Dad, do not worry about us, your family. We will do well because you have taught us well. Your life lessons have stayed with me so often and one last favorite for me is "The most important things in life are not things, they're relationships." Our faith is strong Dad, we continue to learn and we are thankful for our many blessings. There is much to be thankful for in our family. Love, Debbie