John Duane Thompson
2/20/55 – 12/17/12

John Thompson passed away suddenly at the age of 57, leaving a tremendous void in the hearts of all those who knew him.  

Born in San Francisco, John was raised in San Rafael, Calif., graduating from Terra Linda High School.  

At age 19, John lost his father and moved to Alaska to work in a lumber mill and a fishery. He attended UC Berkeley for two years and completed his education at the University of Washington, earning a degree in atmospheric science. He also obtained a pilot license with instrument, commercial and flight engineer ratings.

In 1983 John began his career at the Lake County Air Quality Management District in Lakeport where he served for 20 years, earning numerous awards and recognition for his achievements.

John continued his Lake County service at Special Districts from 2003 until his passing.

His patience, intelligence, positive attitude and dedication made him an enormous asset to the district. He always kept the public’s best interest at heart, and was known as a good, fair, honest man. John’s co-workers were also his friends and he will be missed beyond description.

John was a loving husband, devoted father, gourmet cook, diehard Oakland A’s fan, award-winning beer brewer, Little League coach and an avid waterfowl hunter.

He was preceded in death by his father, Fred Hazen Thompson, and mother, Barbara Jean Ellis.  

He leaves behind the love of his life and wife of 25 years, Ann Thompson; son, Evan Thompson; sister, Maureen Ketron; niece, Aura Lenz (Justin), nephews, David and Douglas Ketron, Gary (Suzi) and Danny (Tina) Wood.

A celebration of life will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17, at the Lodge at Blue Lakes.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to The Evan Thompson College Fund at Umpqua Bank in Lakeport.

For further information call Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary at 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611 or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com .