Past MCC president and benefactor John "Jack" Thompson, age 81, of Osprey, Florida passed away on May 27, 2013. He was born in Sault Saint Marie, Michigan on June 18, 1931. Jack was president of Muskegon Community College for 10 years before retiring.
He and his wife, Suzi Anstine Norbeck, were avid travelers and visited all seven continents. Jack was involved with the Rotary Club, Sierra Club, hiking clubs, and ski and tennis clubs. After retiring, he became a professional photographer, and many of his photographs were displayed in the Muskegon Art Gallery, where he was a member of the camera club and art club.
Jack and Suzi proudly established the Dr. John G. Thompson Fund which strives to ensure all segments, classes, races and religions are involved in every aspect of Muskegon Community College. The fund has enabled the Tackling Obstacles Possessing Success (TOPS) program to take off at MCC.
In lieu of flowers, it was Jack’s wish that his friends and family remember him with a memorial donation to the John G. Thompson College and Community Fund, care of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College, 221 S. Quarterline #400KK, Muskegon, MI 49442.
He is survived by his wife, Suzi Anstine Norbeck of Osprey; brother Don Thompson of Clare, MI; daughter Suzan Hull of Mesa, AZ; stepson Carl Norbeck of Wallingford, CT; stepdaughters Kim Keating of Hanover, NH and Karen Borgerink of Estero, FL; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 3:30-4:00 p.m. at Farley Funeral Home, Venice Chapel, followed by a funeral service. Farley Funeral Home (265 Nokomis Ave., Venice, FL 34285, (941) 488-2291) is in charge of local arrangements.