Dennis Wayne Thompson of Salem, Oregon passed away peacefully in his sleep after suffering from a long illness on Aug. 12, 2022, with his two sons by his side.

He was born in Hoquiam, Washington where he graduated from high school in 1960. He then attended Grays Harbor College, and went on to obtain his baccalaureate degree at Willamette University. He subsequently completed his education with a Master’s degree from the University of Washington.

Dennis then advanced to a career at the Marion County Juvenile Department and Department of Children’s Services with the state of Oregon.

In the mid-1970s, Dennis left Children’s Services to pursue his entrepreneur journey, which he continued until his death. Dennis was also an enthusiastic volunteer at the Salem Hospital.

In 1962, Dennis married his high school sweetheart, Ann Harper of Hoquiam, Washington, and they had two boys.

Dennis and Ann eventually divorced and Dennis married Gerrie Smith, who had three children of her own.

Dennis is survived by his brother Melvin, wife Gerrie, children: Jeff and Ron Thompson, Ron, Dana and Scott Smith; many grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

No services are planned.