Louis "Chief" Tompkins

Louis “Chief” Tompkins, age 81, of Stratford, CT, beloved husband of Barbara Tompkins passed away peacefully into eternal rest on Sunday, January 6, 2019.  Born on June 15, 1937, in Bridgeport CT, he was the son of the late Blanche Gagne and Edward Tompkins of Stratford, CT.  

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara of Milford; his children, Todd Tompkins and Cheryl of West Haven, Lisa Mantini and Tom of Hamden, Tyler Tompkins and Kendra of Waterbury, Kristen Cocca and Noel of Stratford, Douglas Brown of Florida, and daughter-in-law, Lori Brown of Beacon Falls. He is also survived by his adoring grandchildren, Jesse Tompkins, Todd Tompkins Jr., Daniel Tompkins, Jessica Brown, Paige Brown, Marissa Mantini, Kyle Tompkins, Trevor Tompkins, Michelle Tompkins, Hailey Cocca, Jack Cocca, Gregory Tompkins, Benjamin Tompkins and Caroline Tompkins; great-grandchild, Brody Tompkins; and in addition, many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends survive him. He was predeceased by his brothers, Edward, Kenny, Richard and Leroy Tompkins; sister, Barbara Garavel; and son, John Brown.  

Louis has held many titles in his lifetime – originally nicknamed “G” and then the more infamous and appropriate “Chief”. He was a long time worker and foreman for the Town of Stratford Parks Department where he made sure the fields were always ready for the little leaguers and softball teams. After retiring from the town, he was a painter with his son and grandkids. Slow and sure, making sure no “hollywoods” were left behind while listening to Chaz and AJ, Chief loved his crewmates, Wilbur, Daniel, Jim, Sammy and Mary. Chief was a 20-year survivor of lymphoma and would enjoy ribbing Dr. Cooper and Dr. Mel during his treatments. He was a die-hard, life long, devoted Mets and Jets fan, no matter the outcome of the season. He attended many UConn men’s and women’s basketball games with his wife and friends. Not only watching sports, but also playing them, Chief was a champion horseshoe player, dart team member, softball pitcher, and leisurely golfer with his sons and grandsons. For many years, he could be found camping at Bonny Rigg, keeping the campfire rolling and the party going. Lou played the daily numbers, scratch-offs and Caribbean stud poker whenever he could. Chief rolled the dice at Sonny’s cafe and was a welcome face at Zee’s Corner Café. Perhaps his most loved place on earth, one happy island Aruba, Barb and Lou spent weeks in the sun at Casa Del Mar, and the Marriott Surf and Ocean. He shared this island with his kids, grandkids, and friends whenever possible with Aruba Riba’s at happy hour. Possibly his most well-known claim to fame was Lou’s infectious smile with a twinkle in his eyes, a contagious laugh, and a day in day out fun free spirit. Chief was always there for you, putting his family first, and loved every minute he spent with them, especially his sweetheart and soul mate Barbara.

Friends and family may call on Thursday, January 10, 2019, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. A Celebration of Louis' life will take place on Friday, January 11, 2019, at 10 a.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Riverside Cemetery, 308 River Rd., Shelton, CT.

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