Robert L. Thompson

Robert L. Thompson, 84, of Newton Township died on Sunday at Allied Hospice, Scranton. His wife of over 60 years is the former Veronica "Penny" Cooper.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Robert and Hazel Bellersheim Thompson. He was a graduate of Newton-Ransom High School and was a Veteran of the United States Army, serving in Vietnam. Prior to his retirement, Bob was self-employed as the owner of Thompson Sewer & Drain. He was a girls' basketball coach at Abington Heights, Scranton Prep, and Penn State Scranton for many years and treasured the connections he made with the players and his fellow coaches. Bob was an active member of the VFW #7069 and Countryside Community Church.

A wonderful and kind husband, father, and grandfather, Bob dedicated countless hours to anything that interested those he loved. His interests included animals, horseback riding, and basketball, especially the UConn Huskies Women's team.

Surviving are daughters Lisa Dorunda and husband Albert, Jr. of Newton Township and Lori Swaldi and husband Tom of Ringtown, PA; grandchildren Hailey Swaldi, Nicholas Dorunda, Alea Dorunda, and Jadyn Swaldi; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Thompson, and sisters Evelyn Brower and Leona Pallman.

A funeral service with military honors will be held at Countryside Community Church, 14011 Orchard Drive, Newton Township on Saturday, March 15th at 11 a.m., with services by Rev. James Hollister. Interment will follow at Milwaukee Cemetery.

Friends may pay their respects at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Indraloka Animal Sanctuary, 336 Oak Drive, Dalton, PA 18414.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., Clarks Summit.