Alan Thompson

With regret, I inform the world that we've lost one of our kindest, sweetest, most wonderful men. Alan Charles Thompson, lifelong resident of Portsmouth RI and proud Air Force veteran, passed away on Friday, the Fourth of July.

Alan visited dozens of nations as a mechanical engineer for Bird Machine Company for 40+ years and was embraced everywhere he went. He could find a way to relate to anyone, making strangers feel like friends.

But his biggest joy was being home with his family. He loved how his wife of 55 years, Claire (Desmarais), always kept him guessing, young at heart and joyfully well fed.

His daughter, Heidi, was the light of his life.

A successful marketing VP, she's heartbroken because he's the best man she's ever known, no other will ever compare. Full stop.

Alan was born in Fall River, as were Claire and Heidi, he grew up in Norwood and spent many years in Lakeland, Florida, but, to him, he lived in "God's country" on the water in the home his father built.

Parents George and Ogarita also had four other children but only his beloved sister Susan and Ronnie are still with us. His aunt Gabrielle Adams was also quite influential and cherished.

Alan was a dog lover who's three pups also miss him terribly. He also supported the Special Olympics.

This well-loved man will be laid to rest with military honors in a private ceremony and his bountiful life will be celebrated forever.