Jack C. Thompson, age 80, a nearly lifelong resident of Eureka, passed away in Fortuna from complications from a short-term battle with lung cancer.

Jack was born to Roy L. Thompson and Rita L. Thompson on October 17, 1940 in Martinez, Calif. and moved to Eureka as a baby, He was an only child who attended local schools, graduating from Eureka High School class of 1959.

It was after high school that he met the love of his life, Connie Martins, and they married in 1962. They had two sons, Loren in 1967 and Brent in 1971.

He had a lifetime of work in the auto parts industry, working for Eureka automotive, Paoli Bros. (later Sierra Motors) and retiring from Harper Ford. He had numerous friends and co-workers who he had met through his work in the industry.

He lived most of his adult life in the residence on K Street, in Eureka, where he raised his family. K Street neighbors were more of an extended family and he, Connie and the kids, were proud members of the K Street crew. On K Street a party could start at any time. Many vacations were taken with numerous families from K Street and the lifelong friends and memories are many. He and Connie later moved to their current residence on E Street, in Eureka.

Jack’s early adult years were spent working, riding/racing motorcycles and tuning on a project car or truck. Most weekends would find the family watching motorcycle racing at Willow Creek, or on Turn Four at Redwood cres back when the track was dirt. He enjoyed taking the boys annually to San Jose to watch “the Mile” flat track race. He was a member of the Far West Motorcycle Club and enjoyed taking the family to Samoa beach for the motorcycle Easter egg hunt, as well as trail riding at the property on Kneeland.

He was an avid outdoorsman. He spent a lot of time fishing on the Trinity and Eel rivers. Though he enjoyed trout fishing, he later became obsessed with salmon fishing with his dad, Stan Ocheltree, Richard Matteoli and others. Thanks to Steve Crook and Travis Poletski for taking him out for his last fishing adventure, where he brought in a very nice halibut.

His passion for deer hunting was evident, as he would spend months preparing for opening day. He, Herb Zeck and the boys spent many seasons in the Three Forks area, making memories that will last a lifetime. In recent years he looked forward to spending time at hunt camp with his sons, and the crew of Tim, Rick, Todd and Steve. He loved laughing at all the stories that were told over and over again. He was at camp last year, just after his 80th birthday. In recent years, Jack and Connie enjoyed some traveling in their motorhome and attending local car shows with his award winning 1954 Buick special. They also loved spending time with John and Sharon Vance exploring the restaurants in Eureka.

Jack was a proud member of the Eureka Elks Lodge.

Jack was predeceased by his father, Roy L. Thompson of Eureka, his mother, Rita L. Tonini, and step- father Robert Tonini.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 59 years Constance Thompson of Eureka, His sons, Loren Thompson and wife Melissa of Galt, Calif. and Brent Thompson of Eureka. He is survived by his granddaughter, who he adored — Brittney Thompson of Galt, Calif. He is also survived by his brother and sister in law Wally (Bev), Jackie, Cheryl, Wayne, (KD) and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. His beloved dogs Maggie and Molly will also miss his huge smile and gentle nature.

Special thanks to the doctors and staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital, and to the caring staff of Fortuna Wellness and Rehabilitation including Nick, Naomi, Merrilee and others who helped with compassion.

Jack had specific wishes for his end-of-life processes, and there will be no gathering at this time due to an abundance of caution regarding Covid-19.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks those who new Jack to honor his memory by taking a few moments to recall a special memory of him via the guest book.

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