Thomson, Robert "Bob", of Valrico, passed away on August 13, 2018. He was born on June 26, 1933 in Staten Island, NY to Robert and Peg Thomson. He married his wife, Carol in July 12, 1953; they raised their 4 children, Bill, Peggy, Bob, Jr, and Gail. Bob joined the Marine Reserves in January of 1948 at the age of 14. From 1950-52 he served as a CPL in the Rifleman Infantry; during the Korean War he was awarded the Purple Heart while serving with the 1 ^st Marine Division; and was honorably discharged from the USMC in April 1959. The discipline and patriotism he learned in the Marines never left him, as friends and family will attest. He returned home and worked as a truck driver in NY and Brooklyn. Bob enjoyed playing football for several years with Staten Island teams. In 1979 he moved to FL where he volunteered at Nativity Catholic School as Sgt. Bob with the Nuns and school children for 22 years. He was a lifelong member of the Staten Island Marine Corps League, 1 ^st Marine Division Association, DAV, and the Purple Heart Association. 'Valrico Bob' was very active with talk radio and loved to voice his opinions and solutions. Bob often spoke fondly of those days and called Ted, Jack, Paul, and Bob my friends. Bob loved the American flag that he fought so gallantry for so much he often encouraged and purchased flags for his neighbors. Bob was predeceased in death by his lovely wife Carol who passed away in November 2004, his daughter Gail, and his son Bob Jr. Bob is survived by his son Bill and grandchildren that he loved very much. Bob will be missed by so many including his wonderful caring neighbors, his dearest personal friends; Tom, Bruce, several named John, and his many loving friends at Bill's Pharmacy in Brandon, FL. and lastly, a very special 'honorable' mention to his caregiver Donna who he appreciated so.

There will be a visitation on Wednesday, August 22, 2018 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 23, 2018 at 10:30 am at Nativity Catholic Church. Burial at Serenity Meadows will follow. All are welcome.