1929
2013
fter a long illness of Dementia, John, age 83 of Delhi, passed away March 5, 2013 one day before his 84th birthday at Turlock Nursing & Rehab Center. John left us to celebrate his birthday with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He passed peacefully while holding his wife's hand and with his family by his bedside.
John was born in Evanston, WY. He moved to Elko, NV with his family as a young child. The next move was to Stockton, CA, where John attended grade school and high school. After high school he joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 18 during the Korean War, then Navy Reserves for a combination of 27 1/2 years total. He loved his country and served honorably. He lived in Stockton and Lodi for many years before moving to Modesto and Delhi.
John was a machinist (can line) and retired from Pop, Cork & Seal. He previously worked at American Can, Tillie Lewis and C.T. Supply.
John is preceded in death by his parents, Ray & Grace Thompson, his brother Ray Thompson, and sister Dorothea Thurman, and his precious pet, Pug, Mitzi.
John is survived by his loving wife Petra; his sons, Bill Thompson & Mark Thompson; his sister, Irene Porsch; four grandchildren; one great-granddaughter and another on the way. He is also survived by step-children and caregivers, Eddie & Lesa Volkmar, Michael Volkmar, Debbie & Robby Shepard, Rodney & Michelle Volkmar and Randy Volkmar, and 14 step-grandkids, who loved John as their "grandpa," and one niece and numerous nephews.
John was a member of the Turlock Moose Lodge, American Legion Post 88 of Turlock, and the Korean War Dogs of Turlock. He was a member and usher of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Turlock. He attended a men's bible study and was very active in church activities.
John loved being with his wife, taking her to dinner and on short auto trips, and hosting family get togethers. He was very protective, always making sure his wife was safe and happy. He was a wonderful gentleman and very generous, helping those in need.
In his younger days, he loved to dance and listen to country western music.
John, a man who was dear to his family and many friends. His generous and loving nature will be missed by all who knew him.
Viewing will be on Friday, March 15th from 4:00-8:00pm at Lakewood Funeral Home (Heritage Chapel), 900 Santa Fe Ave., Hughson, CA. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 16th at 11:00am at the Good Sheperd Lutheran Church, 640 Minaret Ave & Main St. in Turlock. A reception to follow after the service.
Military services will be held on Tuesday, March 19th at 10:30am at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella, CA.
Remembrances in John's memory may be made to the Memorial Fund at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 640 Minaret Ave., Turlock, CA 95380; Hospice of Emanuel, 1850 Colorado Ave., Turlock, CA 95382, or to Alzheimer's Association . of Northern California, 1060 La Avenida St., Mountain View, CA 94042.
Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/modestobee/obituary.aspx?n=john-w-thompson&pid=163598516&fhid=3570#storylink=cpy
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
March 14, 2013
The Volkmar family
March 14, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
March 12, 2013
Rachel Volkmar-Davis
I love you grandpa soooo much.i will be missing you like crazy.you were the greatest man and I'm am very lucky to call you "my grandpa".i know we will see each other one day but tip then I know you will be with us every day.good night grandpa,I LOVE YOU.
March 12, 2013
We have the greatest memories with Dad/Grampa John...everything from silliness, to serious discussions, and fabulous hamburgers. He will be missed here but we know he's in the best place. Bill & Debbie Thompson, grandson Chris Thompson and Family, Great-granddaugher Katie Ann Thompson, and granddaughther Traci Thompson-Key and husband Tyson.
March 13, 2013
Lakewood Funeral Home
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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