Paul James Thomson

Paul James Thomson, 81, of Grayling, passed away peacefully at home July 18, 2020.

Paul was born on March 22, 1939 in Newberry, Michigan, the son of Harry and Theresa (nee Federighe) Thomson. He was the youngest of 5 siblings and grew up in Hancock, Michigan. Paul met and fell in love with Donna Terrian, and they were married on September 10, 1960. They moved to Traverse City, Michigan after Paul accepted a position with The General Adjustment Bureau. Paul then took a position at the Cornell Agency with Willard and Bea Cornell, ultimately buying the business. He expanded Cornell Agency into the Cornell Insurance and Real Estate Company with Clyde Borchers.

Paul moved his young family to Grayling in 1963 and was immediately involved in many aspects of the Grayling community. He was a member and president of the Grayling Chamber of Commerce. Paul was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Grayling Rotary Club, receiving the Paul Harris Fellowship Award. Paul served on the Grayling City Council and on the board of directors of the Grayling State Bank. He was also involved with the Grayling Youth Boosters Club.

Paul's love of children, family, and people in general was reflected in every aspect of his life. He loved golfing and cooking fantastic meals for friends and family. Paul was active in the St. Mary's Church of Grayling and was born with a servant's heart. He always looked for ways to do something for everyone he met.

Paul is survived by his wife of 59 years, Donna Thomson; his children, Tony Thomson of Grayling, Bette (John) Dienes of Traverse City, Tim (Angie) Thomson of Corunna, and Ron (Rhonda) Thomson of Grayling; grandchildren, Jessica (Jason) Kifer, Patricia Thomson, PJ Dienes, Chris Dienes, Jorden, Nathan, Jacob, and Hannah Thomson, Alex (Selena) Thomson, Tyler Ray and seven great grandchildren. Paul is also survived by his three sisters,, Jean Wealton, Barb Gemignani, and Mary M. Wollney, and his brother and sister in law Tom and Kathy McEnhill and several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents and brother, John (Jack) Thomson.

Visitation will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church on July 22, 2020 beginning at 10:00 a.m. up until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sorensonlockwood.com. For those that wish to remember Paul by memorial contribution, please consider the Devereaux Memorial Library, 201 Plum St. Grayling, MI 49738 or Food for the Poor organization.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness as a devoted husband, father, Poppa, brother, Big Unc, and friend. He was a remarkable man who will be dearly missed. Rest peacefully sweet Poppa.

Arrangements by Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home.