Ted Thompson

Ted Thompson was the definition of the word, “big.” He had a big mustache. He was a big dresser. He always wore a big silver belly Stetson hat with his initials in the crown. He wore a good pair of ostrich boots. He had a big laugh. He had big fun, and Ted always, ALWAYS had a big time.

Leon Pope said, “If there’s one thing I learned from Ted, it’s that he lived life in a big way.”

The evening before every Pioneer Day celebration, Ted could be found preparing the meat for the next day’s celebratory feast with his big grill. His gracious donation every year became an iconic part of the community’s event.

And shortly after the feast, Ted could be found in the rodeo arena preparing to be a pickup man on his big horse.

Ted Thompson was a big part of the Cokeville Pioneer Day celebration for countless years. His humor and booming voice brought much entertainment and laughter to the rodeos.

Ted’s passion in life was horses, ranching and cooking for family and friends. One of his greatest joys was making others laugh. He was in the EMS Service for six years, of which he was president for two years, and president of the Rodeo Club for six years.

Ted, we remember you. We miss you. We hear that big, bass voice of yours and remember many good times.