Lyme, NH — Wayne Thompson, 75, died peacefully on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at DHMC with  his daughters, son-in-law's, grandchildren, great-children, and nephew by his side. Despite his battle with serious medical conditions in recent years, he showed his courage in facing life challenges with a smile. Despite the pain, Wayne stayed strong until the end.

He was born to Charles and Ruby (Watson) Thompson on April 15, 1948. After graduating from Orford High School he attended New Hampshire Vocational Institute, graduating in 1968 with a degree in Automotive Service. On October 28, 1968, he enlisted in the Army Reserves and served for 6 years before being honorably discharged as a sergeant.

Wayne was very passionate about being part of the fire department. On his 16th birthday, he and his twin brother Allen joined the Lyme Volunteer Fire Department. In 1972 he helped fundraise and build a new firehouse for the department. He served for 45 years and retired as Deputy Chief.

For 37 years he worked for Parking Operations at Dartmouth College. After retirement, he enjoyed spending extra time with family, watching wildlife, and reading. For many winters he fed deer outside his house and enjoyed watching them come in to feed. He even had a few bear visitors. Most recently he had a window feeder in his living room to watch the birds from his chair.

Wayne was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who loved spending time with family. He enjoyed camping trips to Pittsburg, NH, Boothbay Harbor, ME, and most recently in Wentworth, NH. He was always up for a quiet evening with family and friends sitting around the campfire.

Wayne is survived by his two daughters and their husbands, Ammie and Gary Collins of Fairlee and Brandy and John Allen of Lyme; his 3 grandchildren and their spouses, Troy and Rachel Collins of Wilder, Tara and Aaron Apigian of Fairlee, and Brooke Allen of Lyme; and 4 great grandchildren, Hayden and Rhett Collins, Kinsley and Charleigh Apigian. He is also survived by his twin brother Allen and sister-in-law Ellen as well as his 3 nieces and nephews Christina, Scott, and Joseph Thompson.

Calling hours for Wayne will be on Friday, March 29, 2024, from 5 – 7 PM, at Ricker Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Woodsville, 1 Birch Street, Woodsville, NH.  A graveside service will be held at the Highland Cemetery in Lyme, NH on Saturday, August 10th at 11:00 am. A celebration of life will be held after the service at a location yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider making a donation in Wayne's memory to the Lyme Volunteer Fire Dept. at PO Box 126, Lyme, NH 03768.