Frederick C. Thompson Jr.

Frederick C. “Fred” Thompson, Jr., passed away at his home in Ferndale, Washington, on January 10, 2026, at the age of 84.

Fred was born on January 4, 1942, in Sacramento, California, to Frederick C. Thompson, Sr. and Mary Thompson. An only child, he spent his early years in California and, after graduating from high school, served a short time in the U.S. Army. He later attended Sacramento State for two years.

In the mid-1960s, Fred moved to San Francisco, where he worked at Cost Plus World Market. It was there that he met Cathleen “Cathy” Carter in 1966. They were married in 1967 and began their life together in Marin County. Fred and Cathy welcomed two children, Jessica in 1968 and Ian in 1971.

After they were married, Fred began developing the exceptional building skills that would define his career while working at the Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. There, he worked under the guidance of an outstanding master craftsman from the former USSR, where precision and exacting standards were essential - an influence that shaped Fred’s lifelong commitment to quality and doing things right.

Outside of work, Fred was adventurous and loved the outdoors. He enjoyed camping in Yosemite, hiking off the beaten path, and beach camping trips with a close group of longtime college friends spent skin diving and collecting abalone - experiences that brought him great joy and lasting friendships.

In 1975, the family relocated to Bellingham, Washington, where Fred raised his family and built a respected career in the construction and cabinetry trades. He owned and operated Bayco, a business known for fine craftsmanship, attention to detail, and integrity. His work included medical interiors, cabinet installation, custom home construction, and projects at St. Joseph Hospital. Fred was highly regarded throughout the community as a true perfectionist who took great pride in his work.

After closing his cabinet shop, Fred found a new passion inspired by steamboats. He joined the local steamboat enthusiast group and purchased a small vessel named Feeble from Gordon Sullivan. During retirement, Fred focused his building skills on steamboats, enjoying many days steam boating around Puget Sound and Lake Whatcom with fellow steamers - combining his love of craftsmanship, history, and community.

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Jessica, in 1997.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Cathy Thompson; his son, Ian Thompson; numerous extended family members and friends; and his cherished cat, Lizzy.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Westford Funeral Home, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fred’s memory to the Whatcom Humane Society.