James Robert Thompson, age 85, of Ashland, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026.

Jim was born to Kenneth and Genevieve Thompson on January 30, 1941, and graduated from Ashland High School in 1959. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1963 to 1966 during the Vietnam era. Following his military service, Jim dedicated many years to public service as a career firefighter from 1967 to 1989, protecting his community with courage and commitment.

Throughout his life, Jim worked in several occupations that reflected his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He was a business owner and operator of Bridgeman’s/Jimbo’s Ice Cream Parlor, a distributor for Old Dutch Foods, a bus driver for Lakeshore Bus Company, and a semi-truck driver for Koch Industries.

Jim had many interests and hobbies that brought him joy. He was a licensed pilot, enjoyed snowmobiling, and was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan. He served his community in many civic roles, including Airport Commissioner, member of the Ashland Snowmobile Club, Chamber of Commerce, Ashland County Board, Ashland American Legion, and Ashland VFW.

On June 1, 1968, Jim married Katherine Ann Swartz.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Genevieve Thompson, and his brothers, John and Jerry Thompson.

He is survived by his wife, Katherine Ann Thompson; sons Jay (Laura) Thompson and Troy (Lisa) Thompson; grandchildren Brendon, Sierra, Karissa, Callie, Taylor, and Lucas; sisters Judy Brehm and Phyllis (Mike Nigl) Thompson; sisters-in-law Mary (Mike) Popko, Carole Rodeghiero, Pam (Wally) Zanella-Bruneau, Dawn Cochran, Lori (Rob) Rye, and Marsha Thompson; brothers-in-law Rick (Marie) Swartz, Bob (Debbie) Swartz, Mike (Debbie) Swartz, Doug (Jean) Swartz, and Jeff (Amy) Swartz; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Lake, 201 Lakeshore Drive East, Ashland, WI 54806. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow.

Known to many as “Big Jim,” he will be remembered for his storytelling, his pride as a veteran, his love of being a firefighter, and his dedication to the community he served.