Kenneth H Thompson

Kenneth H. Thompson passed away peacefully on October 15, 2024, at the age of 87. Ken was born in Akron, OH on January 11, 1937, to the late Harvey P. and Datha D. Thompson. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years Patty Lou Thompson and his brother Norman G. Thompson. He is survived by his three children Bruce (Theresa) Thompson of Martinez, GA, Trayce (Rich) Krauth of Richfield, OH and Tom (Danielle) Thompson of Copley, OH; along with 8 grandchildren and many other friends and family.

Ken graduated from Akron Central High School and then The University of Akron Engineering school in 1959. He served in the Army reserves and worked at Westinghouse Electric before becoming an entrepreneur in the early 60’s. He was the President of the University of Akron national alumni association in 1987-88 and received the Alumni Honor Award in 1996.

Ken owned and operated many businesses throughout his life, most recently retiring from Rainbow Printing in Green, OH. He was awarded the 1997 Entrepreneur of the Year by the Small Business Council of the Akron Regional Development Board and the 1999 Small Business Person of the year by the US Small Business Administration Cleveland District Office.

Ken will always be known for his accomplishments as a long-distance runner. He completed a full marathon on every continent and in all 50 states including many ultra marathons such as Death Valley, Panama Canal, The Iditarod Trail, The Arctic Circle, Great Wall of China, Mount Everest, Mount Kilimanjaro, Sahara Desert and the running of the bulls in Pamplona Spain. In 2013, He was awarded the Phil Dietrich Senior Athlete Award by The Summit County Sports Hall of Fame.

Ken always had a story to tell. He was very generous with his time, often guest lecturing and mentoring in the business community or helping train runners to reach their goals.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at The Renaissance of Richfield, as well as Traditions Hospice for their passionate care throughout Ken’s stay.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ken’s name to The Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org or 800-272-3900.

Friends may call on THURSDAY, October 24, 2024, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd, Fairlawn, OH 44333 where funeral service will commence on FRIDAY, October 25 at 10:00 AM. Burial immediately following in Moore’s Chapel Cemetery.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N Miller Road, Akron, OH  44333.