Richard J. Thompson, 75, of Upper Saucon Twp. died Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at the VNA Hospice House of St. Luke's, Lower Saucon Twp. He is the husband of Mary A. (Katona) Thompson.

Born in Oak Park, Illinois on January 20, 1935 to the late James S. and Marie (Reynolds) and was raised by his step mother Marie (Fannin). Richard had worked at the Lehigh County Vo-Tech, Schnecksville for 23 years until retiring in 1998 as a teacher of occupational therapy and he served his country for 23 years in the US Navy in the Vietnam War and Retired as a Chief Petty Officer.

He was a faithful member of the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Colesville where he participated as Eucharistic Minister, PPLC Board, Funeral Ministry, and many organizations within the church. He was a past Scout Master for 12 years for Troop 301; Past President of the PSEA and the local Teachers Union; Edward H. Ackerman Post, 397, Hellertown; Fleet Reserves Association, Bethlehem; Past Coach of the Youth Sports Associations.

Survivors: In addition to his loving wife of 52 years, 4 months, 2 days, Sons, Mark D. of Pittston and Patrick A. of Center Valley; Daughters, Marie E. wife of R. W. Stout of Arlington, TX and Kathy A. wife of Gregg A. Szakmeister of Hellertown; Grandchildren, Drew E. Szakmeister and Joshuah M. Thompson; and a special supportive family member, Susan M. Hooper of Plains. Predeceased by a son, James "Jimmy" Joseph Thompson, who died April 6, 1993.

Services: Family and friends are invited to call 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5, 2010 at the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc. 326 Main Street - Hellertown and 9:15 - 10:45 a.m. Saturday at the Church, 4101 Old Bethlehem Pike, Colesville followed by a Mass at 11:00 a.m. with the Reverend John J. Martin, Celebrant. The interment with military honors will conclude services at Union Cemetery of Hellertown.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorials to the church, 18015 and or the American Cancer Society.