Rex Thompson, 86, passed away after a long life and brief illness, with his wife at his side.
Born and raised in Hastings, NE, he graduated Hastings College and the University of Colorado, before helping thousands recover from addiction and substance abuse across his 40 years of service, including as former Executive Director of Cornhusker Place, in Lincoln, NE.
Rex found his second calling after retirement as a (real bearded) Santa, bringing joy to countless children from Hawaii to Indiana.
Preceded in death by his mother, Fay; Father, Ray; and big brother, Jack. Rex’s legacy will carry on through those who survive him: Wife, Carol (Mumgaard), and his children, Jennifer (Adam) Hickman, Amy Thompson, Kevin (Fredmy) Bishop, and Troy (Brandy) Bishop; his grandchildren Mallory, Nathan, Bradley, Lincoln, and Watson.
Dad, Grandpa, Husband will be remembered by our continued love of music, travel, sports, reading, camping, puzzles, animals and Christmas.
We are so grateful you were ours for so long and will cherish every memory you gave us.
His family will receive family and friends from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at Timothy Lutheran Church, 425 N.W. RD Mize Rd, Blue Springs, MO. Memorial service will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Meyers Funeral Chapel in Blue Springs. Memories of Rex and words of comfort for his family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com.
The area Santa’s will miss Rex. He was a strong member of our group and was much loved by all.
I am so sorry Rex was always so friendly and interesting to talk to . He will be missed Martha Sperry Hickman
Rex will be truly missed at Eastland Senior Apartments. I will always remember him when I pick up my walking stick that he gave me. My prayers and thought with you and your family.
GOD BLESS
Rex will always stand out in my memories as a man who welcomed people with different perspectives. He was thoughtful and kind in his work~professional and personal. It seemed fitting that he enjoyed his second career as Santa and will always be remembered as someone who saved people with his grace of listening and his gifts of hope.