James Thompson, Jr.

James L. Thompson Jr., 80, of Cheyenne, WY, passed peacefully May 16, 2011 at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. He had lived in Cheyenne for the last 8 years. "Jim" was born June 11, 1930 in Loup City, NE to James Leno Thompson Sr. and Dorothy Oma Thompson. Jim served in the Air Force during the Korean War. He graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder to get his Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and his Master's in Business from Loyola University of New Orleans, LA. He received many awards for his hard work, including his name on a plaque placed on the moon for his work on the Apollo missions. He took great pride in his work, and even though he retired in 1995, after 37 dedicated years to The Boeing Co., he was still an engineer in every aspect of his life. On June 7, 1958 Jim married Cleta M. Mitchell and was strongly devoted to her for 53 years. They had two daughters, Theresa and Marie. Jim adored his family, teaching them that they could do anything they wanted with a little hard work; he was always very supportive of their decisions. He enjoyed helping his family with whatever they needed including putting bikes together and helping with any school projects. After retiring, Jim took on cooking, researching and writing books. He would sit in his office for hours at his computer, writing about things that were special to him, sometimes only to him. But if you had a question about anything he would research it and a short time later present you with all his findings and thoughts on it. Jim is survived by his wife, daughters, granddaughters, Ashley and Kyleen, and four great grandchildren, Michael, Savannah, Addison, and Elijah James. He will always be remembered by his hard work, dedication and great love for his family. There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 11, 2011, at 3:00 p.m. in Frontier Park in Cheyenne by the train. Cremation is under the direction of Schrader Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers or gifts please give your loved ones a hug. Note from Ashley: As I sit back and reflect upon many memories we shared I see life for what it is.... I learned so much over the years from you grandpa, how to live and how to love. I can only hope to live my life as honorably and fully as you have. The years we had were so blessed and will forever be moments embedded in time. I love you, Grandpa.

Service

Saturday, June 11, 2011 3:00pm

Frontier Park

8th Avenue

CHEYENNE, WY 82001

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 11, 2011, at 3:00 p.m. at Frontier Park in Cheyenne by the train.