Claude CE Elmer Thompson, age 96, passed away Thursday, September 19, 2013 in Arcadia, FL. He was born April 8, 1917 in Linden, FL. and moved to Arcadia forty years ago from Miami, Fl. During his working career CE was a pipe fitter for FEC Railroad. He was a veteran serving our country in the United States Navy. In his retirement years he enjoyed gardening, playing crochet and horseshoes. CE is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Janice H. Matthews Thompson of Arcadia, FL., two sons Tommy (Bonnie) Thompson of High Pointe, NC and Evan (Ingrid) Thompson of Oregon; four daughters Linda Willard of High Pointe, NC, Joy (Marcus) Norman of Stark, FL, Diane Whitmier of Atlanta, GA and Donna Weathersby of Tifton, GA, one sister Nell Csonka of Palm Beach Gardens, FL., fourteen grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. CE was preceded in death by his parent Clayton and Sattsi Allen Thompson and three siblings. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 21, 2013 at 4:00pm gathering at Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home. Burial will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Arcadia, FL. Online condolences can be made at pongerkaysgrady.com Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes are in charge of the arrangements.