James R. Thompson (1943-2020)

THOMPSON, RUSSO

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 8/29/2020 at 14:05:58

James R. “Boar” Thompson, age 77, of East Dubuque, Ilinois, completed his earthly journey on August 27, 2020, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Jim’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 30, 2020, from 1:00 -3:00 p.m., at R Place, 292 Sinsinawa Ave, in East Dubuque. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery at a later date. The Tri-State Cremation Center in humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on February 23, 1943, in Dubuque, a son to Vivian (Russo) Thompson. He grew up surrounded by family and friends in the exact same neighborhood where he would spend his entire life making his way in the world. Jim worked as a truck driver for many years, as a mechanic for a few, he also enjoyed spending the spare time in his retirement with the maintenance department at Eagle Ridge, while most recently helping his friends at R Place get the days started with everything in proper working order. But, all who really knew and loved Jim know that where he truly shined was at home. Jim was the epitome of a man among men, and a Jack of all Trades. All of his family, friends and neighbors knew that if they needed anything built, repaired, assembled, or simply improved through modification, Jim was the man for the task and the answer would always be “Yes”. His skillful generosity is legendary and the abundance of memories he leaves behind are inspiring indeed for all of us who strive to serve others within our communities. We will surely miss Boar for the rest of our days; his grand stories of fishing and more, his severely dry wit, his unending supply of colorful clichés, and the peaceful sight of this continually content man when a cold Keystone Light was in his hand while tinkering in the garage. Jim embraced the uncomplicated joys of living life simply, while also to the fullest. We will miss this man who taught us by example that life is but a journey to be lived once, and in case there’s ever any question about it, water is meant for fishing. Thank you, Jim, for the love and lessons you leave behind, and may the peace of the Lord be with you and Joan until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his 3 daughters,
Tamara Lynn “Tammy” (Tim) Freisinger, East Dubuque, Ilinois,
Jean VanBlaracom, Monks Corner, South Carolina,
and Karla (Donny) Kass, Cumming, Georgia;

his 6 grandchildren;
Heather Freisinger, Tanner Freisinger, Valerie VanBlaracom, Michael (Michelle) VanBlaracom, Jordan Kass, and Ryan James “R.J.” Kass;

1 great-grandson,
Xavier VanBlaracom;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his beautiful bride, Joan Thompson; and 2 brothers, Steve “Biff” Thompson, and Mike “Dipe” Thompson.

Jim’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, the University of Iowa, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their compassionate care and support over these last days. Your kindness is appreciated more than you know.

Online condolences may be shared with Jim’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com