Roger Laurel Thompson

Englewood – Roger Laurel Thompson, 74, of Englewood Florida, and formerly of Traverse City, passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on November 9, 2022. Roger was born on January 29, 1948 to the late Laurel and Nadine (Rogers) Thompson. He graduated from Traverse City Senior High in 1966 and then earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Michigan State University where he studied Business Administration and Finance. On Cherry Festival Weekend in 1969, Roger married Frieda McManus. He was well known as Uncle Roger to not just his nieces and nephews, but many in the Hockey community where he served on the board at Centre Ice for 30 years. He was well loved and respected. Roger had a storied career in the banking industry that spanned over 40 years. He started his career at Michigan National Bank in Lansing and retired as Community Bank President for Huntington National Back in Traverse City, formerly known as Empire National Bank. In addition to his career, Roger thoroughly enjoyed being active in the community. He served on the Grand Traverse County Road Commission, the Garfield Township Zoning Board of Appeals, The Involved Citizens Enterprises, the Home Builders Association, Traverse Area Association of Realtors, and the National Board for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He also was a life time member of the Traverse City Elk’s Lodge and the Englewood Elks Lodge where he volunteered at the Englewood Hospital. He volunteered for the Red Wings Training camp for many years and also was active with the Northwestern Michigan Fair. With all of his career and civic interests, he still found time for lots of fun and hobbies including hunting and fishing. He loved to entertain his friends in his man cave and would often treat them steak dinners and eventually a card game or two would be played. He also loved cheering on his nephews and great nephews when they played football for the St. Francis Gladiators. Roger will be remembered as a quiet and generous man. Roger was preceded in death by his sons Jason Charles at the age of 8 and David James at the age of 14 and; his parents Laurel and Nadine; siblings-in-law Clara, Frank, and Pat McManus and Antoinette and Ronald Lints. Roger is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Frieda; his brothers Max (Linda) and David (Sandy) Thompson; siblings-in-law George, Leona, Art (Judy), Mike (Janet), Gloria McManus and over 200 nieces, nephews and other extended family members. Per his wishes, cremation took place in Florida. A celebration of his life will be held on June 17, 2023 at 11 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Old Mission Peninsula. In lieu of flowers or memorials, please use funds to celebrate with your family. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories and condolences with his family.

Roger Laurel Thompson

January 29, 1948 - November 9, 2022