James Martin Thompson

James Martin Thompson, 77, of Olathe, KS, passed away at 2:42pm on February 19, 2020. He was born on June 30, 1942 to Martin and Elaine (Brady) Thompson in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

Jim was mechanically inclined and developed a love for mechanics while working on cars/engines as a teenager in the junkyards around his hometown. In 1961, Jim joined the Air Force. He was an aircraft mechanic and was stationed at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. He was part of the S.A.C. (Strategic Air Command) and was proudly part of Operation "Looking Glass." While there, he was able to meet both President John F. Kennedy and President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1963, while still in the service, Jim married the love of his life, his wife of 56 years, Linda.

In 1964, they welcomed their first child, Cindy. After leaving the service in 1965, Jim started to work for Cummins Diesel in Omaha, NE. Ne worked for for Cummins in Milwaukee and St. Louis. In 1972, he welcomed his second child, Wayne. Jim then went to work for Consolidated Coal at the Burning Star #5 Mine in Desoto, IL for 15 years. Jim moved to Olathe in 1992 to work for American Crane and Tractor until his retirement. It was there that he was able to travel the world and make many great international friends.

Jim was proud of his accomplishments in life. He was very friendly and never met a stranger. Jim loved the outdoors and animals all his life. He was an avid bass fisherman. He formed a lifelong friendship with the late Larry Jones, and they had many adventures together. Jim fished in tournaments and volunteered in many fishing events for children and the disabled. Jim owned and operated Jolly Roger Bass Lures for many years. Jim also shared his giving nature to the Salvation Army, Special Olympics, and other organizations including the ASPCA. Jim also enjoyed cooking, especially on his BBQ grills, and his cooking skills will be greatly missed. Jim was also fond of going to casinos and traveling with his wife.

James is survived by his wife Linda Thompson, daughter Cindy Thompson, son Wayne (Lori Thompson), brothers Tom (Pat) Thompson, Bob (Diane) Thompson, both of Wisconsin, sisters Carol (Peter) Kortenhorn, Sue Opgenorth, Patty ( Tony) Wojicik, Toni ( Ted) Grahn, Mary Deehr, and Lori Thompson, all of Wisconsin. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother, Charlie, and brother, Mike Thompson.

The family will receive friends for a visitation from 2:00-3:00pm on Sunday, February 23, 2020 at the Penwell-Gabel Olathe Chapel, followed by a memorial service at 3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given to either the Salvation Army, Special Olympics, or the ASPCA.


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