Bruce Thompson

April 29, 1953 - Aug. 19, 2020 Beaverton, Oregon

Bruce Thompson died at home Aug. 19, 2020 from multiple health issues. His family was with him. Bruce was born in Lynnwood, Calif., and raised in Sunnyvale, Calif. Bruce moved to the Beaverton area in 1978 with his wife Penny, whom he adored the rest of his life. In his early adult years, he worked as a steam ship agent. Later, he worked in Special Education at Beaverton High School, where he was also on the water polo and swim team coaching staff.

Bruce enjoyed camping, teaching his two daughters how to fish and crab, and throwing a baseball with them. He was caring, thoughtful, and emotional. Bruce would pick his daughters up from school when they were sick and care for them. He gave flowers to his wife regularly. He always cried and left the room when watching “Old Yeller.” Bruce had a great sense of humor and enjoyed laughing at himself as well as making others laugh at themselves. Known as Bruce the Moose by his Little League team, he could be stubborn, so stubborn, that after a massive stroke in 2006, he worked to retake and successfully pass the driving test. Bruce maintained his independence for several years driving himself to and from the gym. Bruce spent his final days teasing his family during card games and watching western movies. He found peace surrounded by his wife, two daughters, and lots of love.

Bruce is survived by this mother, Gladys; his wife, Penny; two daughters, Amanda and Maris; two grandchildren, Rory and Rosie; sister, Carol; brother, David; and many nieces and nephews. Bruce was preceded in death by his father, Garrie; and two brothers, Rickey and Wayne.

In Bruce’s honor, please consider a donation to The Special Olympics.