Memorial

Robert J. Thompson, “Thumper”, 96, of Cedar Rapids, IA, passed away on November 27, 2023, peacefully at his home. Services will be held at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories on Friday, December 8th with visitation from 2-4 p.m. and funeral service at 4pm. Graveside service will be held Saturday, December 9th at 11 a.m. at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. 

Robert was born May 15, 1927, in Dubuque, IA to Harold and Florence (Entringer) Thompson. He left high school before graduation to enlist in the Navy during World War II. It was a brief enlistment due to the war ending but he was instrumental in bringing our troops home. After finishing his service in the military, he began his career as a firefighter in 1951. Shortly after he became a Lieutenant and then later appointed Captain. He faithfully served in the Cedar Rapids Fire Department for 33 years in which Robert was awarded the Meritorious Award for his achievement. Robert was the oldest living retired firefighter in the city of Cedar Rapids. During this time, Robert entered into his first union of marriage and was blessed with a daughter, Teri. Then in 1957, he was united in marriage to Helen Faulkner. Their union blessed Robert with another daughter, Kathy. Robert lived life to the fullest and enjoyed many hobbies. His car enthusiasm was evident throughout his entire life. He was a part time comedian and loved a good joke. He also shared a love for sports and could sometimes be found on the golf course. 

Those left to cherish Robert’s memory are his daughters Teri (Dean) Brockway of West Union, IA and Kathy (Victor) Fowler of Carrollton, TX. Grandchildren: Jared, Amy, Emily, Preston, Cameron, and Victoria; 9 great-grandchildren; Niece: Lynn; Nephew: Kevin

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, wife Helen, sister Shirley, brother-in-law John, and son-in-law Brian.

Robert’s family and friends will always carry his memory in our hearts forever.