Renowned Michigan Marijuana Advocate Dale 'Rick' Thompson Passes Away At 57

Dale "Rick" Thompson, a prominent figure in Michigan's marijuana legalization movement, passed away on the morning of September 18 at the age of 57.

He had been battling colon cancer for the past three months and died at his home in Flushing, surrounded by his family, reported MLive Michigan.

A Life of Advocacy: Remembering Thompson's Legacy

Thompson, a father of three and a grandfather, was known for his unwavering dedication to the cause of marijuana legalization. He transitioned to full-time advocacy work in the cannabis sector in 2010 after working in retail management. His commitment was not just to the plant itself but to the people whose lives were impacted by it.

Anton Harb Jr., a friend and fellow advocate, described Thompson as having a remarkable superpower - empathy. "He loved life, he loved cannabis, and he loved seeing a smile on people's faces," Harb said.

See Also: Michigan Cannabis Regulators Can Do Whatever, But You Can't Sue Them In Supreme Court Because...Well, Pot Is Illegal

Thompson's advocacy work spanned over a decade. He was often on the frontlines of battles surrounding marijuana legalization and access in Michigan. Jamie Lowell, a close friend and colleague, recalled Thompson's passion for medical marijuana rights. "Rick is righteous and he always stood up for what he believed in, no matter what," Lowell said.

Thompson's Role in Shaping Marijuana Laws

Thompson played a pivotal role in decriminalizing marijuana in collaboration with local governments and was a leader in the MI Legalize initiative, which successfully passed recreational marijuana legalization in 2018.

Even in the face of declining health, Thompson remained committed to his cause, working for the Redemption Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals negatively impacted by past marijuana prohibition and prosecution.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel paid tribute to Thompson, thanking him for his efforts in obtaining expungements for old marijuana convictions and advocating for inmates serving lengthy sentences for marijuana-related crimes.

Thompson's daughter summed up his legacy. "To the world, you were an advocate, leader, speaker, friend, and so many things. At the end of the day, you were just my Dad. That's all that ever mattered to me."

Thompson is survived by his children, Matthew, Melissa, Macon and a granddaughter, Morgan. A visitation is planned on September 22, followed by the funeral service on September 23.

Michigan's marijuana industry, which owes much of its growth to Thompson's advocacy, mourns the loss of a true pioneer and compassionate advocate. 

If you are interested in learning more and discussing the cannabis-related landscape not just in Michigan but in other states as well, consider joining us at the 17th edition of the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, which is returning to Chicago on Sept 27-28. All information is available on bzcannabis.com

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