James Brackett Thompson
Marriages
Joan Jones
Obituaries
Steamboat Pilot and Today - January 25, 2019
You may have known long time Steamboat resident James Thompson as Jim, JB, or Big Jim. But one thing was obvious; he was born to be larger than life. He was renown for living life on his own terms and he passed from this Earth as he lived.
During WWII he served his country in the Navy, though not technically of age. He spent his enlistment aboard ship traveling the world. He spoke fondly of time spent in the North Sea where the Navy tested ships in the roughest weather and seas possible.
Upon his return to Routt County, he operated a number of businesses, owned a real estate company, raised a family of six with his wife Betty Wright Thompson and built up ranches and his cattle herd. Being a cowboy was his true calling. Jim's last ranching operation consisted of running a herd of 2,000 head of cattle, 1,000 acres of grain and a string of some of the finest Quarter Horses found in the West. Most of the work was done with the help of his children and one or two hired men. One of the family's favorite stories was when his kids were counting cattle being penned and were losing count. Jim heard their protests and said "Just count the legs and divide by 4". His restless energy and work ethic enabled him to be a success.
Jim retired to Arizona with his wife Joan Jones Thompson; golf and friendships filled their days. Jim's competitive nature allowed him to excel at golf (including a hole in one) although he insisted he'd never had a single lesson.
Jim was survived by his wife Joan, the six Thompson children; Jean Snyder, Luanna Iacovetto (Wayne), Nancy McAnally, Harry Thompson, Todd Thompson (Lynn), and Teresa Pollard (Wayne), stepchildren Susie Rossie (Jim), Glen Jones (Pricilla), Sally Jones and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
When Jim's health failed the family helped and attended him. They are all grateful for the care he received at Cappela's Extended Care in Grand Junction. Cappela's marked his passing with Taps and a folded flag honoring his military service as he was transported from the facility.
According to Jim's request there will be no services. Please join the entire family with your warm thoughts and prayers.
