Paul R. Thompson

Paul R. Thompson, age 69, of Northville, formerly of Illinois, California, and Texas, passed away suddenly September 6, 2017. He was born March 29, 1948 in Chicago, Illinois; son of Paul and Julia (nee Horvath) Thompson. He was united in marriage to Marcia B. Goldberg on December 27, 1969; they spent over 47 years devoted to one another. In 1970 Paul graduated from Kettering University, formerly GMI, with a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering. He then continued his education at University of Michigan and graduated with an MBA. Paul worked at General Motors in Lean Management and Process Improvement for 23 years; after leaving GM he introduced these practices to many other firms through his consulting work. Paul’s family was the most important aspect of his life. He taught his children to be respectful and freely shared his wisdom with them on everything from home repair to career advice. Paul enjoyed running and completed multiple marathons. He was also an avid reader, Paul gave generously to those in need, regardless of his own circumstances.  He faithfully served in his local congregation, and rarely missed a Sunday singing in the choir. Paul was a humble man and a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Paul is survived by his beloved wife Marcia; his children, William C. Thompson, Matthew (Amber) Thompson, Douglas (Dr. Katherine Engel) Thompson, Jonathan A. Thompson, and Rebecca (Evan) McAlpine; his brothers, Gary (Donna) Thompson and Michael (Michelle) Thompson; and his grandchildren, Harley, Kate, Chase, and Wyatt Thompson, Anna, Emilia, and Zoe Thompson, Declan Thompson, and Elliott McAlpine. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Suzanne Martin. Visitation will be held Friday, September 8, 2017 from 5pm until 7pm with a funeral service beginning at 7pm at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. Pastor Ralph Rebandt of Oakland Hills Community Church will officiate the service. In lieu of flowers, donations made in Paul's name will contribute to the building fund for Oakland Hills Community Church, 37150 West Eight Mile, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335.