Celebration of Life this Saturday
Hall of Fame Boxing promoter and businessman Ken Thompson passed away on February 10 (his 85th birthday). There will be a Celebration of Life honoring the promoter this Saturday, April 15, at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, Calif.
The gregarious President and Founder of Thompson Boxing Promotions was well known and liked in the boxing world and beyond. He had built successful businesses in boxing and in building supplies and design including his Thompson Building Materials. On Saturday, a full crowd is expected at this special tribute for a man beloved by his family, friends, business associates, homegrown fighters, champions and thousands more.
I first met Kenny during the World Boxing Hall of Fame era when he served as President of the boxing organization over 20 years ago. Through the decades, I got to know him through his live fights in Ontario, Orange and Corona, Calif. His “Path to Glory,” “New Blood,” “Locked ‘N Loaded,” and “Night of Champions” events were always action-packed evenings as Thompson and Alex Camponovo (General Manager/Matchmaker) introduced a stable of talented prizefighters punching their way to victory. I also had the chance to attend his yearly “Tournament of Champions” golf events near Palm Springs as well as his annual car shows at the Thompson Building Materials’ Fontana lot.
This has been one of the toughest stories I’ve ever had to write. I was very fortunate to have known this man. No one knows how long we have on earth but for Ken Thompson, he sure packed a lot of living into his 85 years on the planet! He reached the pinnacle in boxing and business.
There are so many memories we all have of Kenny. He was a friend, a mentor, an ally, a hero to so many through the years. In the world of boxing, it’s no secret that so many people backstab and lie to your face in this vicious sport we love. And that’s where Ken Thompson stood out; he was not like the others. He was always extremely professional, strong, smart and tough as nails (as one has to be in boxing) and also had the reputation of being fair, loyal and full of integrity. Kenny expected the best out of people and, therefore, everyone strived to be at their best.
During his career as a promoter, I never heard anyone say a bad word about him. In fact, many people in boxing raved about how generous, classy and sincere he was to all. I witnessed these traits countless times especially at his boxing shows at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario. On Friday nights, when you walked through the door there was Kenny to greet you! And it wasn’t just the familiar faces that he greeted. From first-timers to friends alike, all were greeted with a smile and handshake from Mr. Thompson (known for his signature suits and style). He had so much energy and enthusiasm that punctuated every one of his events. He welcomed everyone at his event, making them feel comfortable and ensuring everybody that they were in for a top-notch night.
Kenny was known for his bigger-than-life personality with a hearty chuckle and friendly approach along with his no-nonsense business acumen. In boxing, the Hall of Famer was often spotted in the ring as his fighters and champs fought around the globe. Many of his fighters came back to watch the Ontario fights long after they retired from the ring; and a few others even were employed by Kenny at his various businesses away from boxing. He also donated money to amateur boxing clubs and was supportive of so many athletes trying to make it in the sweet science.
In paying tribute to Kenny, here are some of my snapshots of him at the fights. This is the way I will remember him with his broad smile and his warm handshake. He had a keen sense of humor and loved telling stories about his adventures in and out of boxing. He really was one-of-a-kind.
Condolences to his wife, Vera, their children Lisa, Kelly and Steven, their grandchildren and great grandchildren.
KENNY, YOU WILL BE MISSED. Thank you for all you did for boxing. And thank you for being a great friend and mentor to me.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE DETAILS:
On April 15, 2023, Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, will host a celebration of life for Ken Thompson, a beloved building supplier and boxing promoter. The service will begin at 11:00 am and will continue until with a reception until 2:00 pm.
Ken Thompson, a stellar entrepreneur, was known for his contributions to the building industry and the sport of boxing. He was a generous and kind-hearted man, always willing to lend a helping hand for those in need. His passing left a void in the lives of many who knew him.
The celebration of life at Harvest Christian Fellowship will be a fitting tribute to Ken Thompson’s life and legacy. The service will include remembrances from family members, friends, and colleagues, who will share their memories and stories of Ken. There will be music and prayers, as well as a moment of silence to honor his memory.
Following the service, a reception will be held at Harvest Christian Fellowship. This will be an opportunity for attendees to connect with one another, share their memories of Ken, and celebrate his life. Food and refreshments will be provided, along with a display of photos and memorabilia that showcase Ken’s life and accomplishments.
The celebration of life for Ken Thompson will be a meaningful and uplifting event, one that honors his contributions to the community and the people whose lives he touched. It will be a time to come together, share stories, and remember a man who made a difference in the world.
Harvest Christian Fellowship
6115 Arlington Avenue, Riverside, CA 92504
Saturday, April 15, 2023 l 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
Service and reception will both be at Harvest Christian Fellowship
OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT ON HIS PASSING:
ORANGE, CA. (February 13, 2023) – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Thompson Boxing Promotions CEO, Ken Thompson, a beloved boxing promoter who dedicated 23 years of his life to promoting the sport in Southern California. Throughout his career, Kenny was known for his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the sport of boxing, and his fighters.
Born in Lubbock, Texas, Kenny had a love for boxing from an early age. He started his boxing promotion career in the early 2000’s and quickly established himself as a leading figure in the industry. His ability to spot young talent and give them a platform to showcase their skills made him one of the most respected individuals in the sport. Ken was a true advocate for the boxers and always worked tirelessly to ensure that their careers were as successful as possible.
Kenny’s passion for boxing was contagious, and he inspired countless people to become involved in the sport, both as boxers and fans. He was known for his energetic and enthusiastic approach to promoting boxing events, and his shows always had a special energy that was palpable from the moment the first bell rang.
Throughout his career, Kenny was dedicated to giving back to the community. He was a strong supporter of local charities and was always looking for ways to help those in need. He will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity, and his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Kenny’s impact on the sport of boxing in Southern California will never be forgotten. He will always be remembered as a champion of the sport, a true promoter of the art of boxing, and a shining example of what it means to be a true visionary. His legacy will live on, inspiring future generations of boxing enthusiasts to pursue their passions and make a difference in the world.
Rest in peace, Kenny Thompson, and thank you for all that you did to make the world of boxing a better place. Your memory will live on, and you will always be remembered as a true champion of the sport.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made in Kenny’s honor to the Wounded Warrior Project. www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Kenny’s family during this difficult time.
Photos by Michele Chong/Celebration of Life photo courtesy of Thompson Boxing Promotions