Peter Thompson Obituary

As a recent student of Peter's, I was not at first aware of his rich background in music, photography and literature. However, it did not take me long to realize that I was being taught be someone who was not only a remarkable teacher, but a very special human being.

Peter Coolsen

My deepest condolences to my Aunt MJ and her family, my Chicago/Indiana cousins. I know to all he is Peter; but to me he will always be "Bunky". I enjoyed his smile and laughter and will miss his stories about Italy.

My breath caught when my mother called me to tell me that Peter had gone.
My family grieves along with his, as we have, slowly, since the pronouncement of his illness. Peter was the gentlest, warmest, kindest man I've ever known. The first time I met him, he was lying on the floor of my parents' loft, playing with their dog. Helping my father with his message for the memorial service, I was not that surprised to find out that the first time they had met, he, too, found Peter on the floor. Nothing in the world was beneath him, though his sweet, buoyant soul truly rises above us now, because if there is a heaven, certainly this Peter now resides there.
Rest in peace, Peter. You will always, always be missed.

I forgot to sign my above entry:
Greg Snider, Portland Oregon

Peter Thompson was a close friend and my film mentor for many years. I edited Two Portraits and Universal Hotel with him. He was a pure film and photographic artist and I owe him my ability to seek out the fundamental truth inherent in a film - a scene - a shot - a frame. He gave me a bike which I still have. He was generous with his knowledge and countless students, friends and associates are better artists and human beings for having known him.

I remember Peter fondly from a class at Columbia.

In his films, Peter, with his saint's soul, probed the darkness of war. In his classrooms, he engaged his students in the endless adventure of discovering the world, and was beloved. To his friends, he brought joy and mirth. He is missed.

Peter was the finest teacher I ever had. He was a truly good man and I loved him dearly. It is such a blessing that I got to know him.

In memory of an extraordinary man who lived life to its fullest. Overflowing with creativity and love, he truly made a difference in the lives of all he touched. His memory is forever etched in the hearts of his family and friends. Rest in peace, dear friend.