| Date of Birth | March 7, 1945 |
| Passed Away | August 1, 2026 |
| Place of Residence | Hammondsport |
| Home State | New York |
| Service Date | September 4, 2026 |
| Service Time | 2:00 PM |
| Service Location | Hammondsport Methodist Church |
| Interment Location | Pleasant Valley Cemetery |
HAMMONDSPORT – Roger E. Tompkins, age 81 of Hammondsport, NY, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Corning Hospital. He was born in Rochester, NY on March 7, 1945, the son of the late Edward M. and Alice (Vine) Tompkins.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Elfriede; his son Andrew Tompkins (Deanna); his daughters Christina Tompkins and Gretchen Cruz (Carlos); grandsons Markus, Nathaniel, and Nick and granddaughter Isabella; siblings Sandy Hansen, Craig, Cheryl, Kim Barrows and Jonathan; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Roger lost his birth mother Alice at age 4 and was raised by his step-mother, Muriel (Dunham) Tompkins. Most of his youth was spent in Hammondsport, but he graduated as valedictorian of his high school in Troupsburg. He would later receive his BA from SUNY Buffalo and his MBA from Western New England University.
At the time of his retirement in 2005, Roger was the Deputy Commander of the US Army Contracting Command Europe (USACCE) headquartered in Heidelberg, Germany. USACCE was the Army Contracting Command’s largest overseas command, comprising over 330 contracting professionals, spread across Germany, Belgium, Italy, and the Balkans, which obligated in excess of $1.2 billion per year in support of US Army missions. He spent 24 of his 37-year federal career in Heidelberg, with an “essential personnel” designation allowing him to stay permanently at the then headquarters of the US Army in Europe, counting many high-ranking military and governmental officials as his colleagues and friends.
Upon retirement, Roger and Elfriede returned stateside and made their home in Hammondsport, becoming active in the community. They are longtime members and supporters of the Hammondsport Methodist Church. Among many other organizations he helped over the years with his insight and professionalism, Roger volunteered as docent at the Curtiss Museum, the Urbana tax assessment review board, and the Fred & Harriett Taylor Memorial Library, recently as president of the Board of Trustees. He was also a member of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE).
Though highly accomplished, Roger remained humble and a friend to all who had the fortune to meet him. He served as wise counsel to not only his family, but to his friends and associates as well. His words of encouragement, love, and gratitude remain his legacy. His entire family is mourning the loss of their patriarch and guiding light.
Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral service on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 pm at the Hammondsport Methodist Church, 35 Lake St., Hammondsport, NY, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life. Burial will be at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Hammondsport.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Roger’s name may be sent to the Hammondsport Methodist Church, PO Box 44, Hammondsport, NY 14840 or the Fred & Harriett Taylor Memorial Library, PO Box 395, Hammondsport, NY 14840.
The Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, 35 Main St., Hammondsport, is honored to assist Roger’s family with the arrangements.
Online condolences or remembrances of Roger are welcome at bishopdesanto.com or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.
Roger was one of the dearest men I have ever known. He was my friend and brother of the heart. His leadership at Hammondsport Methodist Church was a blessing for all of us. His love for his family and friends was evident in all that he did. He always had a smile for everyone. Rest in Peace my dear sweet friend.
Roger was the man I emulated growing up. I am so fortunate to have known him and his entire wonderful family.
He was always so kind with his welcoming smile. Great for a laugh or two. I’m so saddened and will miss seeing him about town. His memory will be close to my heart always. 💔🙏🏼
Dear Ms Christina: I am so deeply sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. My heart goes out to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I hope you find comfort in the love and memories you shared with him. Please know that I’m thinking of you, and if there’s anything I can do to support you, I’m here for you. Sending you love, strength, and my heartfelt condolences.
To the Thompkins family,
We are saddened to learn of the passing of Roger. We still remember when he and Elfie moved to Hammondsport. We had many pleasant interactions with them both over the years-especially when I would encounter Roger sitting on the front porch as I passed by. Since we moved away from the area, we had lost contact which was our loss. Roger will continued to be remembered by us and many others for his kind and helpful ways throughout the community.
With sincere condolences, Lynn & Bob Domras
We were so sorry to hear of Roger’s passing. We got to know Roger well through NARFE. He was a great friend and colleague.