Bruce Darrel Thompson, 67, of Ilion passed beyond the pain and darkness of his courageous battle with esophageal cancer on March 14, 2012 with his beloved family at his side. Born in Herkimer, on February 19, 1945, the sixth child of Eleanor Scanlon Thompson and the late Charles Leo Thompson. His time on this earth remained a constant to his beloved Mohawk Valley. Well known for his dedicated work ethic he graced the employ of Little Joe's Dairy, Loviers Dairy, Herkimer County Humane Society as Co-Caretaker, 1978-1983, the Herkimer County Sheriff's Department, 1968-1984 retiring with the rank of captain and recently retired for 26 years with the Remington Arms Security Division. In 1960 he met his soul mate, Joan D. Whitcomb of Ilion, and they were united in marriage on December 5, 1964 in Herkimer, drawing strength and understanding from each other from the very beginning. Their 52 year journey thru life was blessed with their son, James D. Thompson and his wife, Becky of Whitesboro, and their daughter, Stacy L. Thompson and her fiancé, Samuel Licari, Jr. of Herkimer. Adding to those blessings are his grandchildren; Samantha Jo Pasalacqua and her husband, Eddie of Watertown, Brandi Martin and her husband Steve of CA, James C. Thompson of Ilion, Matthew B. Thompson of Frankfort and Jenna Leigh Thompson of Whitesboro. Our legacy of the Thompson Clan blessed him with his great grandchildren, Emma C. Rando(The apple of His eye), Anna Maria Pasalacqua(His Little Rug Rat), Cameron and Jillian Martin, Audyn Jacob and Kyndall Mae Thompson; as well as several step-grandchildren and step great-grandchildren. Throughout his adult life he shared his family devotion and gave his guidance and love to several "children" becoming a father figure and mentor. As an avid sportsman, his membership in the Valley's Fish and Game Clubs was viewed as an honor, and many a deer or turkey hunt or 3-D shoot began with mere acquaintances and ended with lasting friendships and respect. The recognition and celebration of his time on earth is shared by not only his mother, wife and children but his siblings; Charles L. Thompson Jr. of Albany, William and Bertha Thompson, Ronald and Karen Thompson, Sharon and Alan Pettengill and Cynthia and Frank Berberick, all of Herkimer. As well as his close-knit family of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends, including Dick Eysman, an amazing neighbor. He was predeceased by his Dad, Leo; his beloved sister, Marilyn J. Perrone and his brother, James Dwight. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects on Saturday, March 17, 2012 from 2 - 6 PM at the Enea Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Ilion, Town of Frankfort. Immediately following the visitation the family is asking for everyone to join them in Bruce's Celebration of Life and are extending an invitation to any of those wishing to "say a few words." at the funeral home. His family's gratitude is extended to Dr. A. DeTraglia, the Angels at The Regional Cancer Center and his Angels in disguise, Hospice and Palliative Care. In honoring Bruce's wishes, cremation will occur following his services. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bruce's memory may be made to the Michael Pliseck VFW Post 4915 Herkimer or to the Herkimer County Humane Society. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.eneafamily.com.