Gordon Arthur Thompson, aged 70, peacefully transitioned to the next life on Friday afternoon, February 9, 2024, holding hands with his eternal sweetheart, Mary.

Born on March 12, 1953, in Motherwell, Scotland, Gordon was the son of the late Edith (Burn) and Arthur Thompson. Those who knew him recognized him as a kind man, sometimes blunt and to the point, always encouraging others. Fiercely proud of "his boys," he exemplified a father's unconditional love. The addition of a granddaughter brought joy, light, and silliness into his life during the last few years of battling cancer.

Gordon took pride in his diverse career journey, starting as an apprentice engineer with British Telecom, then serving as a firefighter in the London Fire Brigade. At 23, he was accepted as an officer cadet with the British Royal Navy. Unfortunately, a leg injury from a truck accident two days before entering led to the heartbreaking news of his medical condition, preventing acceptance. It wasn't until he discovered an Industrial Relations position that he found his passion for Human Resources.

The final and happiest chapter of his career was as Director of Human Resources for Kawasaki Robotics. He retired in March 2023, thoroughly enjoying his time with the people at Kawasaki and appreciating their kindness and compassion during three years of chemotherapy.

Gordon's proudest achievement was being named HR Professional of the Year 2021 by the Michigan Chapter of the Society for Human Resources. Highly respected, he was often called upon to share his HR wisdom with peers.

Outside of work, Gordon was always on the quest for the perfect fish and chips in America, though it eluded him. He found solace in traveling back to England many times to savor his favorite British treat and visit family.

His family knew the table wasn't properly set without his bottle of HP Sauce. Nothing brought him more joy than heating a can of Heinz British Baked Beans for dinner. His unique culinary choices, like marmite on toast or covering his salad with Heinz salad dressing, were endearing quirks.

Gordon enjoyed simple pleasures, a nice box of biscuits, and sitting with his wife at night, watching endless episodes of "Escape to the Country." You could find him scrolling through recent and old texts from his boys, grinning at the latest pictures of Ellie. Though he learned the game of American baseball, he often confused the terminology with British cricket. He grew to enjoy American football, especially when the Lions started winning, but his true favorite was Mixed Martial Arts, surprising many with his enjoyment of Saturday evening bouts.

He has taken a piece of our hearts with him. There will never be another quite like him with that beautiful British accent, quick but subtle wit, loving heart, and steadying influence on so many lives.

This would not be complete without mentioning Gordon's love for his Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ. An active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his faith was strong, knowing that this life was but a moment in the overall plan. He leaned on the Lord to strengthen him during his hard days and gloried in the blessings showered upon him. He left this world knowing that he would be with his Savior, reunite with his loved ones who had gone before, and see those left behind again. Families are forever.

Gordon is survived by his adored wife, Mary Thompson; dear sons, Matthew Thompson, Jared Thompson, and Luke Thompson; dearest granddaughter, Eleanora; beloved extended familiy in England, in-laws, and friends.

Gordon is preceded in death by his sisters, Marilyn Grace and Hilary Edith Victoria.

Please keep Gordon and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

A visitation will take place on Friday, February 16, 2024, from 2 – 8 pm, at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 17, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 33900 W. 13 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48331, at 11 am (in state at 10:00 am). A recording of Gordon's funeral service is scheduled and can be watched by clicking here .

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project or Angela Hospice to further honor Gordon's life.