MONROE – Edward D. Thompson, 53, died Monday, Nov. 22, 2004 at the Togus VA Medical Center in Augusta. Born on Aug. 9, 1951 in Belfast, Edward was raised by his parents Stuart and June (Davis) Gardiner in Swanville. He graduated from Belfast High School in 1970 and served in the U.S. Army from 1971 to 1973. He lived in Monroe for most of his adult life. At one time, he worked for the Belfast Moosehead Railroad and the Journal Press and most recently as a potter for Monroe Salt Works. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed spending time by a favorite river on his land. A huge fan of the Red Sox, their recent World Series win was a huge boost to his spirits at a time when he was bravely facing a difficult prognosis. In the last week of his life, he was touched by the actions of his friends and family members who came together on a Sunday afternoon to shingle and winterize his house. It was testament to the way he chose to live his life as one who was incredibly generous with not only his time, but anything he might possess. Finally, his children were the centerpiece of his life. He was dedicated to helping them achieve their dreams for the future and was so proud of what they had already accomplished in their young lives. Survivors include his two children Rachel and Ben Thompson; and his former wife, Rebecca Childs, all of Monroe; his father, Stuart Gardiner of Swanville; sisters Becky Thompson of Brooks, Peggy Howes of Whitefield, N.H., Lisa Rediker of Swanville, as well as sisters, Brenda Frost, Lori Cunningham, Shelley Merrill; and brother, Dennis Curtis, all of Belfast. He was predeceased by his mother, June Gardiner in 1993. In accordance with his wishes, there will be a private celebration of his life at a later date.
EDWARD DEAN THOMPSON
