Walter C. Thompson

Walter C. Thompson

ORANGE- Walter C.  Thompson, 84, of Prentiss Street, died Thursday afternoon, July 27, 2017 at Heywood Hospital in Gardner, with his loving wife by his side.

Born in Leverett on September 12, 1932, he was a son of Walter R. and Lucy L. (Johnson) Thompson, he moved to Cushman at age 6 and a few years later to Orange where he attended the Cheney Street, South Main Street and Central Schools, and graduating from Orange High School in 1952

On May 20, 1952, Walter enlisted into the United States Air Force and served during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged on May 19, 1956.

Walter married Concetta “Connie” (Cortesa) on July 4, 1974 and they have enjoyed 42 years of marriage. Walter was previously married to Helen (Bassett) and Jean (Taylor).

Employed by the L. S. Starrett Company in Athol, Walter worked in the carpentry department. He retired in 1995 after 30 years of service.

Walter and Connie were well known for dancing and were ball room instructors at St. Mary’s Church for many years to benefit the church, as well as dancing partners in many dance clubs including the Jumptown Twirlers, the Rounddates Dance Club of Orange, the Heavenly Rounddance Club of Chicopee, and the Ludlow Round Dancers.

An avid music lover, Walter enjoyed the old tunes, as well as watching old movies and reading Western novels. He also enjoyed working in the yard, plants and bushes and especially working in his wood shop creating small furniture and accessories.

Walter was a member of the Orange American Legion Post #172.

Survivors include his wife, Concetta (Cortesa/Puppel) Thompson ; a daughter, Rose Soares ; a son, Mark A. Thompson ; step daughters, Barbara Puppel Coburn and Debra Puppel Botti;  five grandchildren Spiro, Mark,  Nina, Mark and Molly; great grandchildren, Noah, Alex, Kendra, Sophia, Kyle, Kolby and Katrina; and a brother, Ray Thompson.

Besides his parents, Walter was predeceased by a daughter, Bonnie Lu Wheeler and a son, William “Billy” Thompson.

There are no calling hours.

A memorial service will be held on August 12, 2017 at 10 a.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.

Interment will follow in South Cemetery, Orange

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to St. Mary’s Church, 19 Congress Street, Orange, MA 01364

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is directing the arrangements.

You may offer yoiur sympathy online at www.wittyfuneralhome.com