James A. Thompson

James A. Thompson passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 31, 2025, with family by his side.
He was born in Wausau on June 18, 1929. Jim played in varsity football, basketball and baseball at Wausau High School class of 1948. He also played on a hockey team. He was a natural athlete. Jim served our country in the Korean War. Afterwards, he graduated with an Associate's Degree in Drafting. He married Lorna Mae Ahles on Sept 19, 1959, and they moved to Neenah. They had two daughters Jayme and Tammy. Besides building homes and doing construction work, he also worked at the Kimberly-Clark Badger Globe and Lakeview Mills until he retired.
He is preceded in death by his Father, Orin Thompson, on July 28, 1978; Mother, Esther Thompson, on Feb 19, 1984; his wife, Lorna, on Nov 20, 2021. Survivors include Daughter, Jayme (Tom) Brooks and children: Bryenna (Austin) McConnell and their children Luella Jo, Corbin and Everett; Tara Brooks (Brandon) Lindquist; Kassy (Zachory) Williams. Daughter, Tammy Schmid-Mulry (Kevin Mulry) and children Colin (Leanna) Mulry and their children Mavrick and Maddix; Cory Mulry (Victoria Miller) and their child Myles; Christopher Mulry; Cody Schmid; Justin Schmid (Kelsey Berg); Kylie Schmid (Nilsson Davis); Alexy (Soren) Hanson.
A personal message from his daughters:
Dad was a work-a-holic working at his day job and then building homes on the side. He worked hard but he also took time to have fun. He liked surprising us. We wanted a dog and one day he and Mom surprised us with one. He also would make things for us and sneak it into our home and see if we would notice. He also surprised us with a trip to Florida on one spring break from school. He taught us many life lessons but one theme our parents emphasized was to spend as much time outdoors and stay active. He taught us how to water ski, downhill ski, and cross-country ski. We loved going snowmobiling, ice skating, biking and roller blading together. Although, keeping up with him was definitely a challenge! We frequently visited theme parks since roller coasters were his favorite. He would have the biggest smile when one of us would get soaked on the water rides. For some relaxation, we would go to our cottage to be by the lake. There we would have fun swimming, boating, and sitting around the fire at night enjoying s'mores.
Dad didn't watch much TV but did watch sports and old Westerns. Of course, during football season, we knew we would be watching the Packers play each Sunday. Dad even went to the Ice Bowl. He rarely missed a Cardinal game either during the baseball season. He did root for the Brewers as well. His favorite treat was eating ice cream, especially butter pecan. He said that no matter how full you are after eating a meal, ice cream just fills the cracks. Dad's happy place was his workshop and being with his family. We are very fortunate to have lots of furniture pieces he custom built. Dad had a kind heart and was always there for us lending a helping hand. We always loved seeing his goofy and playful side. You will be in our hearts forever Dad. We love you dearly!
Jayme and Tammy
Also, a special shout out to Great-Grandson, Corbin McConnell, who wants to be just like his Great-Grandfather in sports.
A private family Committal Service will be held at a later date with inurnment to take place at Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King, Wisconsin.
We want to give a special thanks to the Assisted Care facility, Prairie Home Assisted Living, and to St. Croix Hospice for providing exceptional care. We are very grateful to have had such loving and compassionate caregivers taking care of his every need.