Theodore O. Thompson

T. O. (Ted) Thompson Aviator, Engineer Theodore O. Thompson of Severna Park, on October 30, 2012. He was 85 years old. The Wisconsin native was born in Racine and grew up there and in Port Washington, WI. He enlisted in the Navy's Radio Technician program just out of high school near the end of World War II. He gained admission to the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in the class of 1950. He was proud of being a two year letterman rowing on the Navy's eight- oared crews. He went on to earn his wings as a Naval aviator and flew attack planes from carriers in the Mediterranean and Western Pacific. He was awarded the Navy 'E' for his skill in aerial weapons competition. He later served three years instructing Midshipmen in the Naval Academy's engineering department. He resigned his Navy commission in 1959 to accept an engineering position with Westinghouse Electric Corp. at their BWI location. He retired from the Hunt Valley site as an engineering section manager after a 28 year career. When he retired he greatly appreciated the farewell picnic his friends and co-workers held in his honor at Oregon Ridge Park. He attributed any success he had in life to his Christian faith, his parents, his wife and his school. His interests included: Cooking, Cycling, Hiking - he walked from Georgetown to Cumberland on the C & O Canal towpath, photography, reading and shortwave listening. He was a licensed private pilot and a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers; Life member of the National Health Federation: the National Rifle Association and the Wisconsin Natural Food Associates. In retirement he enjoyed expanding his knowledge by attending classes at Anne Arundel Community College in Finance, History, Law, Political Science and the Japanese language. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 60 years, the former Carolyn (Dee Dee) Neuens; Sons - Eric Thompson of Florida, Karl Thompson of Sykesville, Daughters - Lisa Burton of Parkton, Susan Colter and Amy Langenfelder of Glen Burnie. Also survived by seven Grandaughters - Sara, Nancy, Emily, Maria, Laura, Molly, and Kate; and six Grandsons - Thomas, Nicholas, Brian, John, Cory and David and a Great-Grandaughter - Kimber. A son Thomas Thompson, preceded him in death in 1982.