James Van "Jim" Thompson

James (Jim) Van Thompson
July 7, 1947 – May 13,2024
Jim was born in McAlester, Oklahoma to James and Dorothy Thompson. He was the youngest of three children. He graduated from Midwest City High School in Oklahoma before attending Oklahoma University. He then moved to Colorado where he continued his education at Colorado University, Denver.
Jim married Kathy Koeneke on April 6, 1974. They were married for 50 wonderful years. Together they had two children and created many unforgettable memories as a family. Jim worked in Sales and owned his own shoe distribution company. He was president of the Shoe Travelers Association. He made many close friends through his work over the years.
Jim loved to play golf with his friends, son, son-in-law, and grandson. He especially loved his Wednesday round of golf with the South Suburban Men's Golf Club. He was a generous man and gave his time to the Optimist Club, as a Stephen Minister and usher at Bethany Lutheran Church, and serving his community as the HOA president. He loved watching his grandkids play sports.
Jim was a man of strong character. He would stop to help anyone in need. He was a loving husband, devoted father, and a friend to so many. Jim was predeceased by his parents James and Dorothy Thompson. Jim is survived by his wife: Kathy Thompson; two children: Katie (Greg) Johnson and John (Tasha) Thompson; five grandchildren: Megan, Abby, Robbie, Gavin, and Logan; two sisters: Pat (Arnold) Farley and Bonnie (Scott) Varvel; brother-in-law: John (Melinda) Koeneke; and several nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Hampden Avenue, Cherry Hills Village, Colorado 80113.
Donations can be made to Bethany Lutheran Church (Bethany-Denver.org) or a charity of your choice.