Jerry Thompson

January 16, 2018

Service Details

Jerry S. Thompson, 81, of Fairfield passed away on January 16, 2018, at Hospice Kavanagh House in Des Moines, surrounded by his loving family. His passing ends a six-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease, otherwise known as “the long goodbye.” We are sad to see him go, but relieved that he is freed from the grip of this disease. Jerry donated his body to the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine for the benefit of future medical professionals, knowing his son and granddaughter benefitted similarly.

Jerry was born March 24, 1936, to Leonard and Rosalie (Potts) Thompson in Esbon, KS. The family moved to Clemons, IA when Jerry was 10, later moving to Conrad, IA. He graduated from Conrad High School in 1954 and attended Coe College, graduating in 1958. While in Cedar Rapids, he met Shirley Sater, and they were married in 1958. Jerry taught school and was a coach for two years before joining Investors Diversified Services (IDS) in 1960, now known as Ameriprise Financial. With his financial advisory practice, he had the opportunity to work with hundreds of clients over the years, and it brought him great satisfaction helping them achieve their goals. He spent some time as a district manager, responsible for recruiting and training new advisors, but ultimately he enjoyed the individual interactions with his clients most. He received many awards over his 51 year career, including President’s Club 22 times and Chairman’s Advisory Council three times, the latter being reserved for the very top advisors in the country.

Jerry was a member and past president of the Fairfield chapter of Kiwanis International. He joined shortly after the chapter was formed, and spent nearly 50 years in service with them. He enjoyed the work in preparing for the pancake breakfast as part of Kids’ Day and parking campers at Old Threshers. He also was a member of Elks Lodge #1192 and the First United Methodist Church, where he served on various committees over the years.

Jerry liked to keep busy. He was never happier than when he was in or behind his ski boat on Lake Rathbun, working on or cleaning a car, trying to soak the lifeguards with an especially good cannonball off the diving board, or towing the grandkids behind his lawn mower.

Survivors include his children, Scott (Teri) Thompson of West Des Moines, Chad (Becky) Thompson of Fairfield and Jay (Becky) Thompson of Fairfield; his grandchildren, Alex, Leah, Megan, Erin, Nathan, Carter and Claire; former spouse, Shirley Thompson; three nieces, two nephews and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Ron.

Family will greet friends from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 27, 2018, at the First United Methodist Church in Fairfield, followed by a celebration of life service at 11:00 am.

Memorial suggestions include the Fairfield Kiwanis Club or First United Methodist Church and can be mailed to Chad Thompson, 806 E Fillmore, Fairfield, IA. Special thanks to Sunnybrook Assisted Living, Bickford of West Des Moines and Hospice Kavanagh House for their assistance in helping Jerry and his family navigate the difficulties of Alzheimer’s.

Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway in Des Moines assisted the family. Online condolences can be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print