John Francis Thompson

John Francis Thompson, 71, of Merton, WI, passed away on Tuesday, March 4th 2025, with family singing The Beatles by his side. John passed at his home surrounded by his beautiful yard which he meticulously cultivated for over 3 decades, particularly enjoying it during his retirement. Beloved husband, of 42 years, of Julie (nee Arndt). Devoted father to Jennifer (Brad) Weappa and Jessica (Ben) Taggart. Doting “Poppy” to his 3 brave, bright, and beautiful granddaughters Keira, Della, and Maija. Brother of Beth Ruby, Karen (Jim) Lex, and Maria Ledger. Son-in-law of Janet Arndt and brother-in-law of Cheri Thompson, and John (Nancy) Arndt. John is survived by loving nieces and nephews and many close friends. John made friends wherever he went, he will be missed by countless pals and fresh egg customers alike. John was preceded in death by his father, Donald Thompson, Sr., his mother, Lorraine “Pedie” (nee LePine) Machak, Stepfather Robert Machak, Father-in-law James Arndt, brothers Paul, Garth, and Donald Thompson, brothers-in-law Jeffrey Arndt and Dave Ruby. John spent most of his time dedicated to raising his girls with his loving wife; teaching them how to play baseball and golf, how to fish and hunt, building them a tree house and refurbishing an old canoe to take down the Bark River, Pine Lake, and the Mill Pond. They took countless bike rides and hikes, teaching them to enjoy and meditate with nature. During his retirement John and his wife grew their passion for raising chickens and building their homestead garden, in between trips to the golf course and outings with their granddaughters. John learned to support their farm to table lifestyle by planning their crops for the year together. In addition to his dedication to his family, and his cherished yard and chicken coop, John was enthusiastic about cooking and his career. There isn’t a recipe he didn’t try to perfect nor a job he didn’t give his all. He took a lot of pride in a job well done, commanded respect and paid it when it was due. John spent decades in the restaurant and hospitality industry, teaching an immeasurable number of staff how to be successful and stay sharp. His impact on this industry will be felt for years to come. In my life, I love you more John. A memorial will be held at a later date in the Spring, John’s favorite time of year. In lieu of flowers The family is asking loved ones to consider becoming a friend of Wisconsin State Parks, or to donate to Wisconsin State Parks here: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/friends Or to Donate to the education fund through the Wisconsin Restaurant Association here: https://www.wirestaurant.org/donate1.html