James Thompson

James Jay Thompson, 83, of Idaho Falls, passed away on December 17, 2012, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. He was born July 18, 1929, to Harry Lewis Thompson and Arba V. Parker Thompson in St. Anthony, Idaho. He grew up working on farms throughout the northwest and attended schools in the area. He voluntarily served in the U.S. Army as a Corporal during the Korean War where he acquired and improved his mechanic and truck driving skills that would serve him throughout his career. In 1958, he married Lillian Lorna Batres in San Francisco, California. They had three children and eventually settled in Idaho Falls where he worked in the construction industry and where he retired from HK Contractors. He worked hard throughout his life and firmly believed you could do anything you wanted if you just put the required effort into it. He was a member of the Eagles Lodge, the Senior Citizens Center and was an amateur radio operator. James enjoyed camping, fishing, rock collecting, traveling, dabbling in small businesses and most of all spending time with his friends down by the river. As all who knew him would attest, he lived a colorful life and relentlessly pursued being happy and helpful with those around him. Survivors are: Daughter: Lisa Marie Gallardo, North Carolina Son: Scott Lewis Thompson, Texas Daughter: Lorna Ann St. George, Washington Sister: Beverly Coles, Idaho Falls, ID Sister: Cloy Wilde, Roberts, ID 7 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife. A celebration of life and gathering with light hors d’oeuvres will be held from 4-6:00 pm. on Saturday, December 29, 2012, at Wood Funeral Home (273 N. Ridge) in Idaho Falls. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to the charity of your choosing.

Celebration of Life -- Saturday

4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. ,Saturday, December 29, 2012 Wood Funeral Home 273 North Ridge Avenue Idaho Falls, ID 83402