John Paul Thompson

John Paul Thompson, 85, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away Thursday, June 15, 2023, in Wichita, Kansas. He was born May 16, 1938, in Pampa, Texas. On November 27, 1965, John married Deanne Fae Cox. Together they raised four daughters, Carrie, Lisa, Martha, and Denise.

After graduating high school, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, John served 4 years in the United States Air Force. His time overseas took him to many places in Europe. He then moved to Wichita, Kansas and met his wife, Deanne. John was an advocate for education. He earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Wichita State University and a Master of Science from Pittsburgh State University. He taught high school in Belle Plaine, Kansas and Augusta, Kansas. He served on the school board for the Rose Hill, Kansas Public Schools. Later, he worked for the United States Postal Service where he was a mail carrier for 23 years.

John was deeply devoted to his wife and family. He was an avid reader and enjoyed history. He spent hours researching, writing, and informally publishing about family ancestry. He loved puzzles, gardening, and fishing, and he always had a dog by his side. John’s woodworking hobby began at a young age. He built boats and an airplane and many pieces of furniture. His family treasures these cherished heirlooms.

John was preceded in death by his parents Chester and Susan (Crum) Thompson, his sister Stephanie (Thompson) Vance, and his grandson Jackson Lee Putter. John is survived by his wife of 57 years Deanne (Cox) Thompson; daughter Carrie (James) LaVoy; daughter Lisa (Tray) Vedock; daughter Martha (Rick) LeJuerrne; daughter Denise Putter; and 12 grandchildren: Jake and Carleigh LaVoy; Claire, Grace, Sophie, and Olivia Vedock; Bella, Caroline, and Joe LeJuerrne; Thomas, Nathan, and Paige Putter. He is also survived by his brother Tommy Thompson.

John will be remembered for his love of family, deep sense of patriotism, and loyalty to his many pets. John and Deanne were long-time members of the Rose Hill United Methodist Church. His faith was an integral part of his life.

Funeral Service is 10 am, Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at Rose Hill United Methodist Church, 19551 SW Butler Rd, Rose Hill, Kansas 67133. Interment to follow at Dunlap Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rose Hill United Methodist Church, the Rose Hill Historical Society, and Dunlap Cemetery.