Chocolatier and founder of Rhéo Thompson Candies has died

An undated of Rhéo Thompson posted to social media. (Rhéo Thompson Candies/Facebook)

The founder of a beloved chocolate shop in Stratford, Ont. has passed away.

An obituary for Rhéo Thompson was published on the W.G. Young Funeral Home website, announcing the founder and owner of Rhéo Thompson Candies died on June 7 at the age of 82.

According to his obituary, Thompson nurtured the business for 35 years.

“A true entrepreneur, he began crafting his confections in the basement of his home and grew the business into the beloved Stratford landmark that still stands on Albert Street today,” the post said.

Thompson began his business from a booth he rented at the Stratford Farmer’s Market in 1969 and transformed it into a booming confectionary producing over 150 different chocolates and candies.

Thompson was also known for his time with the Stratford Rotary Club, the ANAF and the Stratford Noon Hour Club.

The current owners of the business posted their condolences on social media.

“Rheo’s legacy is woven into the very heart of this business — from the iconic Mint Smoothies he created to the enduring commitment to quality, tradition, and community that defines Rhéo Thompson Candies to this day. Rheo’s passion, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit shaped not only a beloved local institution but touched the lives of generations of customers, staff, and supporters," their post reads, in part.

Anyone who wishes to make a memorial donation in his honour is asked to direct the money to the Rotary Respite House in Stratford through the funeral home.