Mark Vernon Thompson
Saturday, April 29, 1944 – Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Mark Vernon Thompson, a lifelong farmer, rancher, public servant, and devoted guide to hunters, passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the age of 80 in Casper, Wyoming at Wyoming Medical Center. A public viewing will be held 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Davis Funeral Home on Monday, March 24, 2025. A celebration of life planned for Mark’s honor later this summer (time and place to be determined).
Born on Saturday, April 29, 1944, in Centerville, Michigan, to Edna May and George Salmond, Mark’s early life was marked by perseverance and adventure. As a toddler, his mother brought him to Lander, Wyoming, where he was introduced to a life of hard work and determination. His stepfather, Alvin Thompson, became a great mentor and inspiration, and in 1952 the family moved to Dubois. There, Mark worked alongside Alvin on the HM Ranch in the Dunoir Valley. In 1956, the family relocated to a logging camp near Rand, Colorado, where a 12-year-old Mark earned his keep by laboring with the men—a testament to the work ethic and ruggedness that would define his life.
Returning as a teenager to the Dunoir Valley, Mark’s roots in the community deepened. With a keen eye on his neighbor’s daughter, he soon embarked on a journey of love and partnership. On Saturday, November 7, 1964, he married Sondra “Sandy” Detimore—a union that lasted 60 years until his passing.
Together, Mark and Sandy balanced full-time jobs with farming, ranching, and guiding hunters while raising their family in Dubois. Mark’s dedication extended into public service; he served on the Dubois City Council and School Board before retiring after nearly 30 years with the Wyoming Highway Department. His accomplishments at WYDOT culminated in his role as the supervisor of Road Maintenance in Dubois.
Mark is survived by and will be deeply missed by the love of his life Sandy; his sons, Joe (Joy) of Rock Springs and Jim (Dayna) of Billings; and his daughter, Traci (Steve) of Centennial. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Kyle (Janika), Kayla, Kaitlyn, Jordan (Paul), Josie, Justine, Ellen (Caleb), and Logan (Selena); and his great-grandchildren: Brailynn, Peyton, Zoey, Vayden, Jerek, Paizen, Eliana, Ezra, Henry, Lainey, and Ellis. He is also remembered fondly by his brother, Garth (Terry) of Laramie; his sisters, Gail of Casper and Julia of Lander; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Mark Thompson was a kind soul and a gentle giant who always found the good in every situation. His legacy of service, hard work, and unwavering love will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. Rest easy, Dad—you will be loved and missed forever.
On-line condolences for Mark’s family may be made at TheDavisFuneralHome.com
Services under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Crematory, and Monuments.