Greg G Tompkins

Gregory Giles Tompkins, 77, of Newton, passed away peacefully at home on June 24, 2024.

Greg was born to Dr Carl and Mrs. Violet (VanBrocklin) Tompkins on November 7, 1946. He attended Newton schools and graduated from Newton High School in 1964. He married his high school sweetheart, Susan Sheets September 25, 1966, she survives of the home. 

He graduated from Wichita State University with a degree in Music Education in 1969. He taught instrumental music for several years at Valley Center schools for 5 years before working at Dickey-Davidson Music in Newton with local students and teachers. He returned to teaching for Remington School District in Whitewater and Potwin where he taught for 28 years before he retired in 2008. Not one to stay retired long or away from music education, he went to work for Senseney Music, going out and calling on school band directors just as he had done for Davidson music. Being a music educator and helping a student develop their talents or just gain a greater appreciation for music was what he enjoyed the most. Greg taught and inspired so many students over the years not only with his love of music, but also inspired them to always continue learning more to expand their knowledge and get better at what they do. 

In retirement Greg had more time for building a greenhouse and growing orchids with his wife Susan. He also had more time for his woodworking, and began perfecting his interest in wood turning, specifically segmented wood designs. He created many bowls, vases and urns for family and friends and several special awards for Orchid shows. Some of his projects took hundreds of hours and are comprised of thousands of small pieces of different colored unique woods. He was a member and past president of the South Central Kansas Wood Turners and also member and past president of Kansas Orchid Society. He also enjoyed gardening, and caring for their many horses, his dog and cats over the years. He was talented and creative but humble.

Greg is survived by his wife Susan Tompkins; daughter Francesca (Robert) Hoch of Newton; sisters Carolyn Hunter (Jim) of Scott City, Christa Taylor of Topeka; sister-in-law Barbara Ready of Osawatomie; granddaughters Sarah Gronau (Becky Prouty) and Becky (Everett) Sauerwein all of Newton. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law Morris Taylor and Mark Ready. 

A private family graveside service will be held at a future date in Sedgwick Highland Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Hope in the Valley Equine Rescue & Sanctuary, Valley Center, KS