James Dennison Thompson

james thompson

James “Jim” Thompson, 77, of Mineral Illinois, passed away March 31, 2023, in the Iowa City Hospital.  Jim was born on December 4, 1945, in Princeton, Illinois to Gilbert and Sadie (Whipple) Thompson.  He was baptized at the New Bedford Christian Church, of which he is still a member.  Jim graduated from Manlius High School in 1964.  He married Loretta Wilhelm on June 20, 2008.  Jim farmed all his life in Gold Township with his father, Gib, and his son, Marty Thompson.  He and his family were often seen at the Bureau County Speedway, where the Thompson Racing Team won many events. 

 Jim was known for his big heart and generous nature.  He would do anything for his family and friends and often cooked and donated smoked pork for benefits throughout the area. He loved cooking for his friends and enjoyed their camaraderie, as he served a meal in his “man-cave” on Thursday evenings.  Jim served on the Bureau County Board, the Green-River Drainage Board and he was Supervisor of Gold Township for many years.

Jim was preceded in death by his Parents, Gib and Sadie and a grandson, Alex Franklin and nephew, Chad Kerber.  Jim is survived by his wife Loretta; his children, Marty (Monica) Thompson, Michael Thompson and Tara Thompson, Edna Jo Espino, and Ashley Gunsallus; 12 grand- children; 9 great-grandchildren;  

5 nephews and nieces; two sisters, Jeri (Dale) Sommers and Joan (Allan) Kerber; and two former wives Betty Nanninga Dieci and Vickey Stone Thompson.

Visitation will be at the New Bedford Christian Church on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, from 3 -7 with the funeral also at the church on Wednesday,  April 5, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Burial willl follow the funeral at Gold Township Cemetery.  Memorials may be directed to the family.

The family plans on having a pot-luck picnic on the Thompson farm this summer in honor of Jim. 

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  1. So very sorry for your loss. Jim was an awesome man. He will be missed! Hugs and prayers to you all❤️

  2. So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing, never saw him without a smile on his face or laughter coming from him. I’m sure he will be missed terribly. Hugs and prayers for family and friends!

  3. Sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He came to my dad’s visitation with Loretta such kind words from them both. I also saw him prior to transplant in clinic and he was ready to get another transplant and get back to regular life again. Always smiling. I know the pain your going through, it is tough losing your dad. You have the beautiful season of Easter approaching and God’s promise. I will keep you in my prayers the coming days.

  4. So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was always smiling and we loved his visits to the farm. He will be sadly missed.


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