Andrew was born in Freeport, ME July 14, 1932. He graduated from Brunswick High School in 1951 where he excelled in basketball, track and football. He received a scholarship to go on to attend Springfield College and majored in physical education. He continued to excel as a three-sport athlete. He later received his master’s degree in education from the University of Connecticut.
Andrew began his teaching career for two years at Loring Air Force Base in Limestone, ME. He spent the next 30 years as athletic director at Goodwin Technical School in New Britain, CT. While at Goodwin Tech he taught physical education and health as well as coached soccer, basketball and track. While at Goodwin Tech he was a mentor to students and fellow coaches. He provided strong encouragement and advice that applied to their current athletic schedules as well as lifelong lessons. He was well decorated and achieved many honors as an athlete, but his greatest joy was in the accomplishments of his students. Many of the bonds formed at Goodwin Tech continued into retirement. Colleagues, friends and students from Goodwin Tech surrounded him on his final days.
In retirement Andrew enjoyed spending time with his wife Kathleen, daughter Kelly and granddaughter Jasmine as well as extended family and friends by the ocean. If he ever left this great location it was for something special. The cottage was always booked in the summer with family and friends ready to water ski once the tide came in. When the tide went out it was time for a quick solar shower, socializing, cookouts, reminiscing, and dancing to his 45s. His tradition of wonderful times with family and friends will live on in his honor but the best host will always be missed.
Andrew is survived by his wife of 34 years Kathleen Nickerson Thompson and daughter Kelly Thompson and granddaughter Jasmine of Old Orchard Beach, ME. Daughter Michelle Calebi and granddaughters Christina of Westerly, Rhode Island and Lauren of Fort Kent, ME and his brother-in-law Eric Nickerson of Brunswick that was by Andrew’s side to assist him in his final days.
He is also survived by brother in-law Emil and wife Nancy Berges of Long Island, ME. brother-in-law William and wife Linda Nickerson, niece Jennifer Foster and husband Adam Foster with great nieces and nephew Madeline, Lauren and Charles, all of Lewiston, ME. nephew William Nickerson of Portland, ME and brother-in-law Leif Nickerson of Sebago, ME.
Andrew was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Doris Thompson, brother Thomas George Thompson USMC, recipient of two purple hearts, sister Charlotte Berges and son Eric Anthony Thompson.
Heartfelt thanks to Moxie Sumislawski of Avon, OH for always being there for Coach, you truly are his Best Man.
Special thanks to Coach’s A-Team who include his lifelong friends, athletes, and fellow coaches, you were all his “shining stars.”
The family would also like to thank the caring staff of Southern Maine Hospice, foremost Dianne.
As Coach would say, “And the beat goes on.”
Graveside services will be held Saturday, May 25th at 11am at Burr Cemetery, 56 Durham Road, Freeport, ME. Following the service, a celebration of his life will be held at his home.
Funeral arrangements by Brackett Funeral Home, 29 Federal St., Brunswick, ME 04011.
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