Joe R. Thompson

In Loving Memory of Joseph R. Thompson May 6, 1945 – July 24, 2025 Joseph R. Thompson, 80, passed away peacefully in Fort Wayne, Indiana on July 24, 2025. Known to most simply as "Joe," he was a man of immense kindness, deep devotion, and quiet strength. Born on May 6, 1945, Joe lived a life marked by love, service, music, and family. A devoted husband to Mary Thompson, Joe's heart was forever anchored to the love of his life. Together they built a legacy of family, raising children who adored and admired him: Bob Thompson, Daniel Thompson (preceded him in death), Kathy Thompson, Pete Thompson, John Jakelski, Jim Jakelski, and Joann Jakelski. Joe was also very close with his siblings and their families, Bill (preceded him in death) and wife Cindy Thompson, Kitty and husband Nick Miller and Eddie and wife Susie Thompson. Joe was the proud grandfather of 32 and great-grandfather of 27-a role he cherished dearly. His greatest pride was his family, and his greatest joy was found in their laughter, milestones, and stories shared around the dinner table or in the warmth of his well-loved garage. Known for his generous spirit, Joe was the kind of man who would always lend a hand-or a tool-without hesitation. His garage was more than a workspace; it was a gathering place, a haven for conversation, curiosity, and borrowed wrenches. Joe had a tool for everything and a solution for most. A true adventurer at heart, Joe loved sailing, traveling, and any opportunity to experience something new. And yet, no matter where life's winds carried him, he always found his way home to Mary. Music was the constant rhythm of Joe's life. Whether singing barbershop harmonies, leading his church choir, or strumming his violin or banjo, Joe's songs echoed the joy he brought into every room. He was known for singing anywhere and everywhere-his music was a gift he gave freely. Joe dedicated his professional life to the insurance industry, where he spent decades ensuring that people were cared for during life's uncertainties. He brought the same compassion and diligence to his work as he did to his personal relationships. He was preceded in death by his beloved son Daniel Thompson, his parents Neil and Collette Thompson, and his brother Bill Thompson. Though they are gone, their memories live on in the stories Joe loved to tell and the lives he touched. Joe Thompson will be remembered as a man who lived fully, gave generously, sang loudly, and loved deeply. His absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. A visitation for Joe will be held at Divine Mercy Funeral Home in Fort Wayne, Indiana on Friday, August 1, 2025. Family visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, with friends welcome from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by burial at 12:00 PM at Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne. To send a flower arrangement in memory of Joe R. Thompson, please click here to visit our sympathy store. To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Joe R. Thompson, please click here to visit our sympathy store.