Darwin was born on November 21st, 1940 and passed away on December 26th, 2025 at the age of 85

Darwin Ross Thompson was born on November 21, 1940, in Salem, Oregon. Two years later, his younger brother, Larry, was born, and from the very beginning, the two shared a bond that shaped their lives. They grew up side by side, collecting memories and stories that would last a lifetime. Larry often shared how grateful he was that God chose him to be Darwin’s little brother. He attended McCook Senior High School and later earned a master’s degree in business and management from Pepperdine University. His career with companies such as Caterpillar, J.I. Case, Cleaver-Brooks, and Deval Equipment took him and his family to many places across the country, creating a life full of experiences and memories along the way. He retired in 2003. On July 30, 2005, Darwin married Carol, his beloved wife and true partner in life. Together, they made their home in John Day, Oregon, where they spent their married life building a home filled with love, community, and shared experiences. Darwin and Carol shared a deep love of traveling together, creating cherished memories along the way. Darwin was a devoted member of various Episcopal churches throughout the United States. His final church home was St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Canyon City, Oregon, a place that held deep meaning for him and his family. Many cherished milestones were celebrated there, including the baptism of his grandchildren, his marriage to Carol, joyful Christmas services in which his grandchildren took part, and Easter services filled with children and life. The church community was especially active and vibrant during these meaningful moments. Through St. Thomas Episcopal Church, several of Darwin’s grandchildren were able to attend Ascension Church Camp in Cove, Oregon, an experience that held special significance for the family. Some of Darwin’s greatest joys were having his grandchildren at our home, watching them play sports, and cheering them on whenever he could. He also enjoyed working with stained glass, golfing, bird dog hunting, and camping with friends and family. Just a month ago, Larry and his family traveled to John Day and Seaside, Oregon, to spend time together. The visit was filled with laughter, stories, and meaningful family moments as they celebrated Darwin’s 85th birthday. It was a special trip, cherished by all who were there. Darwin is survived by his loving wife, Carol Thompson; his daughter, Carmen Carlyle (Andy); his son, Scott Thompson; his stepchildren, Chris Beil (Erin), Taron Spaulding (Ben), Chantel Phillips, James Phillips (Meghan), and Jason Phillips (Olivia); his brother, Larry Thompson (Dona); his sister, Tana McKracken; his niece, Jena Thompson; and his nephew, Corey Thompson. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Jessica (Rich) Derrick, Raylynn Thompson, Ryland and Landyn Beil; Allison and Jacob Spaulding; Kenadi and Ariah Jenkins; Jesse Klefman; Hennesea, Amberlee, and Jedadiah Phillips; Jason Jr., Austin, Tyson, Skylar, and Jordyn Phillips; and Hayla Kalin, Knoxtyn, and Esmerae Whatley. Darwin was preceded in death by his parents, Gwelda (Turner) and Frances Thompson, and his nephew, Dustin Thompson. A funeral service will be held on January 11, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Canyon City, Oregon. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ascension School Pool Fund in Cove, Oregon; Grant County Home Health & Hospice; or St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Canyon City, Oregon through Driskill Memorial Chapel, 241 S. Canyon Blvd., John Day, OR 97845. Driskill Memorial Chapel is assisting the family. To leave an online condolences, please visit: www.driskillmemorialchapel.com.