Mark Eric Thompson, 65, of West Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on March 7, 2026. Mark was born on December 3, 1960, in Terre Haute, Indiana, the son of Joe Thompson and Nancy (Ellington) Thompson. On August 16, 1986, he married the love of his life, Lori (Lindley) Thompson, in Marshall, Illinois. They shared nearly 40 years of marriage, building a life grounded in love and rooted in deep devotion. Mark loved his family fiercely and took great pride in being a devoted husband, loving father, son, and #1 Pap. In his youth, he was baptized and is a member of First Christian Church in Marshall. Mark attended Marshall High School, where his talent and dedication on the football field earned him All-Conference honors before graduating in 1979. He then attended Lincoln Trail College, where he obtained his degree in Petroleum Technology. He dedicated 40 years of service to Indianapolis Power and Light Company, now known as AES Indiana. He built a career marked by hard work and advancement. He began at the Petersburg Generating Station before transitioning to Indianapolis as a lineman, where he was a member of IBEW Local 1395. Over the years, he progressed through Transmission and Distribution Operations, retiring as Director, where he was highly respected and admired. Mark was an eternal optimist, known for his soft‑spoken, calm, and gentle nature, yet he was the strong and steady rock of his family. He lived with a carefree spirit and quick wit. Just ask him, and he would tell you he was the funniest guy he knew. His trademark corny “dad jokes” never failed to bring smiles (and plenty of groans) to those lucky enough to hear them. Mark had a lifelong love of reading, as well as watching and rewatching old westerns, especially classic John Wayne films. He was a loyal Illinois Fighting Illini and St. Louis Cardinals fan. Mark enjoyed family adventures and traveling with Lori, especially exploring various beaches of the world. Key West and Las Vegas are where they shared their fondest memories. He cherished sunsets with his soulmate in Key West, and they enjoyed attending shows in Las Vegas. Together, they also shared a love of music and attended countless concerts over the years. Mark delighted in life’s simple pleasures, including coffee, hiking trails, practicing yoga, relaxing by fall bonfires, and taking up golf in retirement. Mark had a special place in his heart for dogs, especially his beloved Yorkies, who were his constant companions, bringing joy to his days. He loved birdwatching, especially hummingbirds who fluttered at the window to remind him when it was time to refill their feeders. Above all, Mark cherished life, family, and the moments that made it rich and full of laughter. Mark was preceded in death by his father, Joe Thompson; brother, Jeff Thompson; half-brother, Donald Thompson, and his loyal canine companion, Lola Thompson. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Lori; his mother, Nancy; two sons and daughters-in-law, Logan and Alison Thompson, Holden and Kandice Thompson; a daughter, Madison Thompson and her fiancé, Alex Druwe; two grandsons, Hayden Thompson and Bodhi Thompson; his cherished fur-baby, Vivvy Thompson; his “favorite” cousin, Lynette Rayman and her husband, Paul; sister-in-law Mollie Thompson; a nephew, Caleb Thompson and wife, Melissa; and two nieces, Megaen Graves and Carrie Thompson. Mark’s loss will be felt immensely by those who loved him and he will be fondly remembered by those who had the pleasure of knowing him. A time of public visitation will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 1-4 pm CDT (2-5 pm EDT) at Pearce Funeral Home. Services in honor of his life will be held for the immediate family, conducted by Pastor Bill Wiggs on Saturday, April 18, 2026, immediately preceding the visitation. Cremation has taken place, and burial will be in Marshall Cemetery at a later date. For those desiring, consider a memorial contribution to your local animal rescue or shelter. Online condolences are being accepted by pearcefuneralservices.com.