John Earl Thompson

John Earl Thompson, 81 years old, passed peacefully at home, on December 14, 2025. He was born in Elgin, IL on May 27, 1944. John and his loving wife, Dare, were married on July 24, 1964. They had two beautiful children together, Gregory Thompson and Valerie Ciccione. He enjoyed traveling to many places but especially loved their time in their motorhome proudly visiting every U.S. state. He also enjoyed the several trips he took his grandchildren on! He loved the outdoors and spent many summers fishing in Canada. He moved to Lake Geneva, WI in 2001 and enjoyed lake living, with the majority of his days spent cruising around the lake on their pontoon boat, and swimming with his grandchildren. He was a car salesman at Biggers Chevrolet for 25 years. His love for cars extended beyond work; he enjoyed racing cars which he did at Sycamore Speedway and spending many years watching Greg race, races on TV, restoring cars and tinkering around in the garage. He bought a '57 Chevy that he had for many years and remodeling it brought him much joy. He had a habit of bringing interesting recreational "toys" home, creating countless childhood memories for his children. Some might say he threw the best 4th of July parties in the state of Illinois! John was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease several years ago, and because of his wife's selflessness and dedication to caring for him, he was able to stay in the comfort of their home during his illness. They were blessed with having Keri Steele come into their life and work alongside Dare, providing exceptional care, support, and friendship. John regularly participated in the Rock Steady Boxing program at the Lake Geneva YMCA, which is designed to lessen the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. He attended that program for the last several years where he regained strength and made numerous friends along the way that brought him much joy. Above all, John will be remembered for his love of family, his sense of humor, his huge heart, and his joy in life's simple pleasures. He leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and devotion that will continue to live on in all who knew him. John is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dare Thompson of Lake Geneva, WI; his children, Gregory (Susan) Thompson and Valerie (Rodney) Ciccione; his grandchildren, Kara (Chris) Barta, Jamie (Clay Mitre) Thompson, Chesney Ciccione, Delaney Ciccione and Avery Ciccione; as well as his two great-granddaughters, Grace and Claire Barta. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Geraldine (Fischer) Thompson. A Celebration of Life will be held in May 2026 Arrangements made by Toynton Walworth Funeral Home, Walworth, WI 262-275-2171 www.ToyntonFuneralHome@hotmail.com.