James Thomson Obituary

JAMES BUCK BUCHANAN THOMSON James "Buck" Thomson (83) died at his home in Kula, Maui under the care of Hospice Maui. He was born January 2, 1940 to Barbara and Douglas Thomson in Honolulu, Hawaii. He was raised in Waialua, Oahu along with his sister, Gay where his father was employed by Waialua Sugar Company. Buck attended New Mexico Military Institute and then the University of California at Davis. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Production. He had been in ROTC, so spent the next two years in the Army. He went on to spend 28 years in the Army Reserves, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. The sugar industry played an integral part of Buck's life as both his father and grandfather also spent their years in the industry. Buck joined the sugar industry in 1966 as an agricultural trainee at Wailuku Sugar Company. His career in the industry spanned 27 years in field operations at both C. Brewer and American Factor plantations. He retired in 1993. Buck had a great love of sports. He was a great volleyball player, loved body surfing and baseball. In his older years he joined Harley Ching's softball team, The Dragons. He also supported and attended Oregon State University sports, especially baseball. In 1966, he met his future wife, Judith Donovan, at UC Davis. They were married February 12, 1966 in Menlo Park, California, then moved to Hawaii after completing his military service. He is survived by his loving wife, Judy, three daughters; Heidi Beach (Chris), Robin Pratt (Sam), Jamee Sanders (Jake) and 6 grandchildren. A private memorial service is planned for family members January 2, 2024 at St. John's Episcopal Church in Keokea, Maui, where he will be laid to rest. Arrangements Provided By: Ballard Family Mortuary