Donald E. Thompson, 64

Feb. 20, 1961 — Jan. 20, 2026

Donald Earle Thompson lived a life shaped by determination, independence, and a deep appreciation for the people and places that meant the most to him. An accomplished airline pilot, dedicated martial artist, and lifelong lover of Weirs Beach and Lake Winnipesaukee, Donald passed away on Jan. 20, 2026, in Lake Wales, Florida, after battling lengthy health issues.

Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, Donald was raised by his mother, Nancy Thompson, and his grandparents. His grandfather, Robert Dennison Thompson, affectionately known as “Gramps,” played a significant role in his upbringing and raised him as his own. His grandmother, Lillian Mae Thompson (Davis), passed away when Donald was young. The guidance, work ethic, and resilience instilled in him during those early years shaped the course of his life.

From a young age, Donald demonstrated ambition and a willingness to try new things. He played football and golf during his school years and carried an adventurous spirit throughout his life.

Donald’s greatest passions were flying, taekwondo, and the lake. He had a deep and abiding love for Weirs Beach, and Lake Winnipesaukee, a place where he felt most at home. He lived for many years in Weirs Beach and later in Meredith. Some of his fondest memories were made there, spending summers with family and friends, especially time shared with his cousins. In his younger years, he worked every summer at the Halfmoon Snackbar on Weirs Boulevard, proudly operating it for a season. There he formed lifelong friendships and created memories he often recalled with pride, laughter, and affection. The lake was where Donald worked hard, relaxed fully, socialized freely, and truly enjoyed life.

He pursued his dream of aviation through flight training at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. In a highly competitive industry where far fewer positions existed than applicants, Donald distinguished himself through both skill and presence. He began his career as a flight instructor at Concord Airport before embarking on a more than 30-year career as a commercial airline pilot. He flew for Eastern Express, Trump Airlines, and American Airlines, serving as a first officer. Known by the nickname “Hollywood,” he was confident, capable, and deeply committed to his profession. He earned the respect of his peers and flight crews alike and was admired for his professionalism, charisma, warm smile, and approachable nature. Flying was not just his profession, it was his true passion.

In addition to aviation, Donald devoted many years to martial arts, earning a fifth degree black belt in taekwondo. He later opened Northeast Martial Arts School in Laconia, reflecting his discipline, leadership, and commitment to excellence. His personal motto was, “Anything is possible to a willing mind.”

Donald was adventurous, loved to have fun, enjoyed socializing, and was always ready with a laugh. He was proud of his accomplishments yet remained humble. He valued loyalty and friendship deeply, sharing both the good times and life’s challenges with those closest to him. Time spent at the lake with family and friends remained among his most treasured memories.

He is survived by his daughter, Hannah Abigail Thompson of Fryeburg, Maine; his uncle, Gary Thompson of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida; and his cousins Shirley Febo, Kenneth Young, Debbie Thomson, David Young, Earle Young Jr., and Kim Weir.

He was predeceased by his mother, Nancy Beverly Reynolds (Thompson); his grandparents, Robert Dennison Thompson and Lillian Mae Thompson (Davis); his stepfather, Richard Reynolds; his uncle, Robert D. Thompson Jr.; and his aunt, Shirley P. Thompson.

He is also survived by members of his paternal family, including his sisters Cheryl Elkington of Idaho and Mim D. White and Seely White of Yuma, Arizona. He was predeceased by his father, Richard B. Dixey; his sister Cynthia Seeley of Virginia; and his brother Roger Dixey of Laconia.

A celebration of Donald’s life will be held at Weirs Beach, with the date and time to be announced.

Memorial donations may be made to the Allied Pilots Association Emergency Relief and Scholarship Fund, 14600 Trinity Blvd, Suite 500, Fort Worth, TX 76155. Donations may also be made to the Weirs Beach Action Committee, P.O. Box 5481, Laconia, NH 03247, or online at WeirsBeachFireworks.com.

Donald will be remembered for his passion for flying, his deep love of the lake, his adventurous spirit, his loyalty as a friend, and the meaningful memories he created with family and friends.