Robert F. Thompson, son of Lieutenant Lester P. Thompson and Sarah Jane (Foster) Thompson, was born in Canandaigua, New York, July 31, 1870. He received his preliminary school training in Phelps, followed by a course of study in Canandaigua Academy, from which he was graduated. He studied for his chosen profession in the law department of Michigan University, from which he received his degree of Bachelor of Laws, and then took a post-graduate course, receiving the Master’s degree in 1893. He was admitted to the bar, December, 1894, in Ontario county, New York, and at once entered upon practice at Canandaigua. In 1899 he was elected district attorney, and in this responsible position gained reputation as a trial lawyer and advocate of unusual ability. He engaged in law practice in partnership with Frank A. Christian, January 1, 1900, and retired from that office December 31, 1905. In 1908 he was unanimously nominated by his party for the office of county judge, was elected, and is now (1910) filling that place. That he was esteemed fit for the position is evidenced by the fact that no opposition was arrayed against him and no other candidate was nominated to contest the place with him, a most unusual circumstance. In addition to his professional labors judge Thompson devotes much attention to community affairs, and is actively interested in some of the most important institutions. He is a trustee of the Ontario Orphan Asylum, and a member of the board of managers of Clark Manor House, and a director in the McKechnie Bank. He also rendered efficient service as organizer of The Singers, a local chorus of one hundred and fifty voices which has delighted the music loving public upon many occasions.
Judge Thompson married in Canandaigua, New York, September 8, 1896, Susan Josephine Rudd, born September 5, 1872, in San Diego, California, daughter of Charles G. and Susan (Palmer) Rudd, and granddaughter of Rev. Charles G. Rudd, for many years pastor of the Baptist Church at Lyons, New York. Her father was at one time American consul in South America. Judge and Mrs. Thompson have no children.