Michael E. Thompson

Michael E. Thompson, 63, of Van Wert, died at 5:43 p.m. Saturday, August 6, 2011, at Van Wert County Hospital in Van Wert.

He was born April 27, 1948, in Bellefontaine, the son of the late Henry E. and Faye (Bennett) Thompson. On March 24, 1972, he married Diane (Pack) Thompson, who survives in Van Wert.

Mr. Thompson was hired at Central Insurance Companies in 1971 and earned his designation as a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter from the CPCU Society. He held positions in Procedures, Administration, Loss Control and Underwriting and was a key member of the management team at The Central Companies for 26 years. He retired in April 2010 as senior vice president of Commercial Lines Underwriting. Mr. Thompson was highly regarded by professionals within the reinsurance industry for his knowledge of coverages and keen negotiating skills.

He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in Vietnam and a member of Willow Bend Country Club in Van Wert.

In addition to his wife, survivors include a son, Tyler (Lindsey) Thompson of Cincinnati; two brothers, Charles E. (Kathy) Thompson of Cleveland and James (Elaine) Thompson of Bellefontaine; one sister, Barb (Terry) Richards of Columbus; and two grandchildren, Haylee and Trace Thompson.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 10, at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, with the Rev. Gus Christo-Baker officiating.

Calling hours are from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, August 9, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.

Preferred memorials: Van Wert County Relay for Life.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.alspachgearhart.com.