ERIE – Robert E. “Bob” Thompson, 91, of Erie, died Monday, Jan. 21, 2013, at Genesis Medical Center, Illini Campus in Silvis. He worked for John Deere for 36 years, retiring from the experimental department in 1978. 

Bob was born March 10, 1921, in Erie, the son of Payne E. and Rose M. (Rush) Thompson. He married Gladys Ferguson on Feb. 15, 1939, in Davenport, Iowa. She preceded him in death in 2010. He was a member of Erie Christian Church.

Survivors include two sons, Robert D. (Brenda) Thompson and Kenneth P. (Mary) Thompson, both of Erie; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren.