Thompson, Jimmie Lee (1949-2021)

THOMPSON, HELLAND, HOEFER, HODGE

Posted By: Debbie Greenfield (email)
Date: 11/19/2021 at 14:34:32

South Hamilton Record News, Jewell, Iowa, September 1, 2021

Jimmie Thompson, age 71, of Ely, IA passed away on Wednesday, August 25, 2021 at his home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, August 28, at the South Hamilton High School Gym, Jewell, IA. Burial was in the Homewood Cemetery in Ellsworth, IA.

Jimmie Lee Thompson, Soldier, was born on October 10, 1949 in Jewell, IA. He was the eldest of two children born to Dale and Marj (Helland) Thompson.

He grew up in Ellsworth, IA. He attended elementary school in Ellsworth and later attended the South Hamilton School District in Jewell.

He enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country for nearly four years, serving two tours in Viet Nam. He served on the U.S.S. Montrose and on a PBR (patrol boat, riverine) with River Division 593. He was honorably discharged with a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Viet Nam Campaign Medal and Viet Nam Service Medal with bronze star in lieu of second award. He was also honored with his name on the Coralville Veterans Memorial Walk.

After his time in the Navy, he maintained a fondness for the river, duck hunting and fishing on the Iowa River, the Coralville Reservoir and many other locations in Iowa and surrounding states.

Soldier was always family oriented, but also found family with the Viet Nam Vets Motorcycle Club (VNVMC). He was a National Charter Member, State Charter Member and served as the Iowa State President.

Those remaining to cherish his memory include his sister Peg Thompson of Jewell, IA; one nephew Mark (Dee) Hoefer of Jewell, IA; one niece Mary Ann (Mike) Hodge of Lenoir, NC; four great-nieces and nephews; and the entire VNVMC.

Soldier was preceded in death by his parents Dale and Marj Thompson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to English River Outfitters, 2564 305th St., Washington, IA 52353.

For more information and online condolences go to www.boekefuneralhomes.com. Boeke Funeral Home of Radcliffe was in charge of arrangements.