Larry Thompson

Larry Edward "Josh" Thompson of Fort Collins, Colorado left this life for his eternal home on Saturday, August 18, 2012 after a very brief bout with cancer. Josh was born on May 10, 1946 in Mena, Arkansas to Ida Lewis and Buford Thompson. His biological father left before Josh was born, and when he was two years old his mother married Hershel Ponder. Shortly after that the family moved to California. Josh graduated from Gustine High School, then enrolled in the Army and served as a Ranger with the 82nd Airborne. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam. After that Josh lived a colorful life as a vagabond and adventurer, working odd jobs and making many friends along the way for several years. He completed three years of college toward a sociology degree. In May 1989 he married Carol Buman Hageman in Milford, Nebraska. Soon thereafter he began a long career as an over-the-road truck driver. Though he would miss his family whenever he was away, he enjoyed driving and seeing the country. Every day when he was on a run he would call home to check in and tell his wife how much he loved her. Just three weeks ago he completed his final run to California and back before becoming critically ill. Josh is survived by his wife, Carol; stepchildren Scott Hageman of Phoenix, Arizona, Jeffrey (Casey) Hageman of Casa Grande, Arizona, and Nicole (Todd) Miller of Fort Collins, Colorado; two grandchildren, Nathaniel and Kayla Hageman, brother Hershel (Alicia) Ponder of Johnstown, California, sister Linda Martin of Sonora, California, and brother James, as well as many nieces and nephews. Per his wishes, cremation has been done and a Celebration of Life is planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to assist his wife (who is on disability) with final expenses, can be made by going to GoFundMe.com, under Josh Thompson Memorial Fund