John M. Thompson
October 04, 2019
John Michael Thompson, age 70, passed away Friday, October 4, 2019.
John was born January 31, 1949 In Des Moines, Iowa to John (Jack) and Sonja (Hansen) Thompson. He graduated from Des Moines Tech High School in 1967. He proudly served his country in the U. S. Army during the Vietnam Era. After returning home, he joined the Des Moines Police Department in 1972, while also obtaining his Associates degree in Criminal Justice from DMACC. He faithfully served his community in this capacity for 36 years. John spent several years in the Uniform Patrol Division attaining the rank of Senior Police Officer. He later transferred to the Criminal Investigation Division where he worked in the Crimes Against Property Section up until his retirement in 2006.
John enjoyed all forms of racing, especially sprint car racing and NASCAR. He raced go-carts for many years, was an avid golfer, enjoyed woodworking, and loved riding his Harleys. John was an exceptional husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed spending time with family and attending their various activities.
He is survived by his wife, Lorna (Hines); children, Shannon Graves and Jamie (Melissa) Hines; grandchildren, Robbie Coffman, Andy Coffman (Haley), Karlee Hines (Dalton), Makenna Graves and Jordan Graves; great-grandchildren, Myah, Jayden, Boston, Bayler and Brooks, all of Des Moines. He is also survived by his sister, Sandy (Phil) Trent of Colorado Springs, CO; brothers, Bruce (Janet) Thompson and Bob (Teri) Thompson, both of Des Moines; and his loving nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John (Jack) and Sonja Thompson.
Services will be held at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Visitation will be from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Sunday, October 13. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, October 14. There will be a reception at the Police Association Rec Center, 5374 E University Avenue, Pleasant Hill immediately following the service. Private family burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery in Pleasant Hill at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the JDRF Greater Iowa Chapter, the DMPD Athletic League, or a charity of the donors’ choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Louise and Ernie Green
10/23/2019
Lorna, We just heard of Johns passing. Sorry to hear of your loss. Find strength in your family and hold on to the light and laughter John gave to all.
Bruce Thompson
10/12/2019
Lorna and kids you have my deepest sympathy I will miss our chats and texts our shot runs our Veterans day breakfasts and your annual cake but most of all I will dearly miss you older brother may your final journey be a smooth one.
Bob Thompson
10/11/2019
A lot of years a lot of races a lot of fun. No matter what brother John always had your back. I will miss him dearly. RIP Thanks for all the fun times. Brother Bob
Mel Moore
10/11/2019
First let me offer my sincere condolences to Lorna and her family..Jamie and Shannon and to John's family Sandy, Bruce and Bobby
I've known John for 56 years , Lorna 54...Through out the years we had many Great times together as friends, you might say as an extended family
John was an extremely giving and loving person, he will be missed by many as well as myself
It came as a shock that we lost John at such a young age
You might say we lost one of best friends, husband, father, grandfather/ great grandfather that we have known
RIP John ..my friend, my brother ...we will all see you again one Glorious day
Mel or Melvin as my dear friend Lorna has called me all these years
Kathe Fosnaugh
10/11/2019
Lorna, & Family , Sending my deepest Sympathy ,Im so sorry for your loss !
Carol Dickey
10/10/2019
Sandy, So sorry for the loss of your brother. Wendell and I send our condolences to Phil and you.
Sandy Trent
10/10/2019
He loved his family & friends with his whole heart - there was nothing he wouldnt do for you!
He will be missed beyond belief.
Much love, Sis
Bill McCarthy
10/10/2019
John was one of the good guys. He was a deep thinker who was reserved and caring towards others. His calligraphy talents were exceptional. He will be missed.
scott rudisill
10/09/2019
I met john when I joined the local van club back in the late 1970's. Always fun to be with rest in peace my friend
Dave Brown
10/09/2019
I kind of grew up with John, going to Jr. High and High School together. Then in 1971, after getting out of the service, we both tried to get on the police department. He made it that time and I did not. I even sold him his first pair of uniform shoes while I was working for Frankel's at Park Fair. I went on the police department in 1974 and John and I worked together on patrol on the eastside of the city for a period of time. Great guy and a good cop. My sympathy is extended to Lorna and the rest of John's family.
Dave Brown (retired DMPD)