GUY “NAN-OLA IKBICHI” THOMPSON, proud citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026. He was born on November 20, 1950 in Paterson, New Jersey and grew up in Flint, Ypsilanti, and Fenton, Michigan, where he graduated high school in 1968. He moved to Ohio to attend Ohio University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Communication in 1972.

Guy was a storyteller and passionate music maker. A multi-instrumentalist, playing drums, guitar, and trumpet among many others, he played professionally in many bands during his life, including Cincinnati Slim and the Headhunters, local band Dumbfounded, Sleepy Joe Lee and the Motor Kings, and Johnny Paycheck’s band. He was also an accomplished composer of his own music, including the hit song “I Can’t Keep Up.”

Guy loved working with his hands. He was a skilled craftsman and home renovator, and owned his own printing business for several years. He was never without a project for his whole life.

He was a lifelong student of Eastern spirituality and philosophy and leaves behind him numerous confusing proverbs about monks crossing rivers.

A member of no clubs, he refused to join any organization with low enough standards to accept him as a member.

He is survived by his wife Diana (Lynch) Thompson, son Zachary Thompson, daughter Amanda (Adam) Gatton, grandchildren Jacob McConkey and Carmen Gatton, and sister-in-law Linda Lynch. He was preceded in death by his parents Gene and Rosemary Thompson and his brother Ross Thompson.

In accordance with his wishes, he has been cremated. In lieu of a service, a small Celebration of Life will take place at the family’s home at 610 Belle-Aire Place, Washington CH, OH 43160, on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 4-7:00 p.m.

Anowa chipisala’cho. Until we see you again.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Summers Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to www.summersfuneralhome.com