Legendary activist, tireless advocate for Michigan Cannabis legalization, and frontline soldier for those affected by the war on cannabis.
You will be remembered and have a chapter in the history of the end of cannabis prohibition.
Carry on wherever you are. Carry on.
#michiganrickthompson
DALE “RICK” THOMPSON
DOD 9-18-23
MLive
Michigan marijuana legalization ‘warrior’ Rick Thompson dead at 57
FLUSHING, MI — Five years ago, marijuana advocate Dale “Rick” Thompson and others delivered petitions that would lead to marijuana legalization in Michigan. He was proud.
As Michigan’s multi-billion-dollar marijuana industry continues to grow and thrive, Thompson recently lay dying of cancer reflecting on his life.
Through the pain and sickness, Thompson maintained his sarcastic wit, poise and compassion for others, friends say.
The 57-year-old father of three children, and a grandfather, died at his home with family in Flushing, where he lived with his elderly mother, on the morning of Sept. 18. He was diagnosed with colon cancer nearly three months ago.
Thompson, a 1983 Flint Central High School graduate, attended the University of Michigan-Flint and Northern Michigan University. He worked in retail as manager at Art Van Furniture before devoting himself to the cannabis legalization movement full time in about 2010.
Thompson’s work revolved around marijuana, a plant, but it was the people who used that plant who motivated and inspired him, said Anton Harb Jr., a friend of Thompson’s and an advocate for veteran marijuana access.
“His greatest superpower was his empathy,” said Harb, who’s looked up to Thompson as a mentor since they met in 2018. “He loved life, he loved cannabis and he loved seeing a smile on people’s faces.”
Since about 2010, if there was a battle in Michigan surrounding legalization or access to marijuana, Thompson was on the frontlines.
“Warrior,” “advocate” and “crusader” are some of the words friends and colleagues used to describe him following news of his death.
More posts
Whitmer Signs Bills for Health Services and Criminal Justice
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation that aims to establish a licensure framework for dietitian nutritionists. The governor also signed legislation that delivers ongoing funding for trial courts across the state, reducing costs for...
People v Williams Michigan COA – Police CPL Check
People v WilliamsMichigan Court of AppealsNo 365299 (04/18/24) MCL 28.425f permits a police officer to ask a person observed to be carrying a concealed weapon to produce their concealed pistol license (CPL) at any time and for any reason. Makes possession of a...
Underage Workers in Factories Spark Fines, Investigations, and Legislation
A New York Times report exposed widespread child labor in a Michigan factory, prompting state and federal authorities to take action. The report focused on a Hearthside Food Solutions plant in Kentwood, alleging the presence of numerous underage workers. Michigan's...
Understanding Domestic Violence Laws in Michigan
Understanding Domestic Violence Laws in MichiganDomestic violence is a serious issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age, income, or background. If you are experiencing domestic violence in Michigan, it's important to know your rights and the laws that protect...
Macomb Prosecutor issues first charges under new safe storage law
Understanding Domestic Violence Laws in MichiganMacomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido has filed the first charges under Michigan's new safe storage law following a critical accident in Warren. An 8-year-old boy allegedly accessed an unsecured firearm and shot himself...
Marijuana grow busted as feds investigate trend in more states
The DEA is investigating international criminal organizations that are operating illegal marijuana grows in about 20 states, including Maine.The significant electricity usage in a residence, its windows concealed with cardboard, and the scent of marijuana caught the...
A visit with a kick
POW - Right in the Kisser. Businesses watch out for the lawA Pennsylvania-based convenience store chain was hit with a lawsuit by the Biden administration at the same time the president stopped by one of their locations on the campaign trail. Sheetz is being accused...
Woman tried to board flight with 56 pounds of marijuana
Woman allowed airport police to check her luggage, had name tag on bags, according to reportsBefore a 21-year-old Memphis woman could board an United Airlines flight, Memphis International Airport Police found 56 pounds of marijuana in her luggage, according to...
You’re too stupid to store a gun properly
The Biden administration once again defends a ban in federal court, arguing that people who use marijuana should be prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms. They claim that this restriction is supported by historical precedent and that individuals who...
Illegal Firearms in Michigan
Illegal Gun Ownership in Michigan: Insights and StatisticsThe issue of illegal gun ownership in Michigan is a complex one, influenced by various factors ranging from criminal activity to loopholes in regulatory measures. Understanding who owns illegal guns is crucial...
