Tribute

Jeff had many wonderful qualities, qualities that were even chivalric. He was kind, giving, steadfast, persevering, he had a great sense of humor and a talent for using his size to that extent, he was fiercely loyal to his friends, he listened, he respected people, he helped those in need.

We will miss him and feel his loss for a long time. I would hope, though, that his legacy is not just a collection of photographs and ‘Mayhem stories' (I do hope those make the rounds for years to come). What if Jeff's legacy was that his goodness lived on? What if Jeff's sterling qualities were a part of each one of us? What kind of a world would we have if it were full of people like Jeff Thompson... a kinder, gentler world, perhaps.

I resolve to be kind, to give, to stand firm, to persevere, to laugh long and loud, to cherish my friends and to hold them near my heart, to listen, to respect, to help, to take a stand and to not be afraid no matter my size... or theirs.

Great men and women do not just do great things, they inspire greatness in others.

Tom Oertling