John Patrick Thompson

John Patrick Thompson, 60 of Rawlins, WY passed away surrounded by his loving family on October 8th, 2024, after a lengthy illness.

John was born on October 31, 1963, in Japan, to Katie Shaw and David Michael Thompson, who was serving there as a Marine. In John’s early childhood, the family relocated to San Diego, California. His mother was of Osage descent, and John cherished the time he spent on the Reservation. A skilled surfer, he found peace spending time at the ocean, as well as other adventures while there. He was fiercely proud of his Native American heritage, which shaped the man he grew to be.

John began his law enforcement career with the Chula Vista Police Department in San Diego. Always drawn to the West, a vacation trip to Wyoming convinced him to make it his home. After relocating, John worked for the Wyoming Department of Corrections, the Sinclair Police Department, and then began his esteemed career with the Rawlins Police Department on August 30, 2004.Known for his exceptional service, dedication, and leadership, John received numerous awards throughout his career, and his impact on both individuals and the community was widely recognized. As the Rawlins Police Department shared, “John’s legacy of service, bravery, and commitment to the safety of our community will always be remembered, and our community is forever grateful for his contributions.”John retired from the Rawlins Police Department on January 1, 2019, but true to his nature, he didn’t remain idle. He began working at the Rochelle Golf Course and City Market, where he built lifelong friendships.

John met Kari Thompson through their respective careers and their relationship finally began in 2011. They married on March 20, 2013. Kari and John liked to set out on adventures and thoroughly enjoyed going for drives, fishing, and being outdoors. They visited places he’d always wanted to see, including Custer’s Battlefield, Cody, Yellowstone, and countless others. They were especially fond of areas rich in history, which often took them to museums, old townsites, and other spots of interest. Their simple joy in each other's company defined their relationship in everything they did. Even a quiet afternoon watching football or a Western on television brought them contentment.

John was warmly welcomed into Kari’s large extended family. He often expressed to Kari how much it meant to him to be part of a close family - something he’d long desired.

John is survived by his beloved wife Kari; Bonus Daughters Cassi (Jake) Konrath and their four children Riley, Jayden, Avery, and Coley; Chelsea (Brian Elkins) McBride and her two children Madison and Easton; His Mother and Father-in-Law, Suzie, and Roger Cox (Mom and Dad). Sisters-in-Law: Jody (Willie) Bridges & family; Jackie (Ed) Neale & family; Kari’s late sister Andi Ward’s daughter, Ashlie Love & boys; Tammy Cox & family; Dani (Troy) Vorn & family; Brothers-in-Law: Matt Cox & family; Lester (Patricia Nation) Thompson; as well as countless aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and their many children. 

John is also remembered by his Brothers and Sisters of Law Enforcement. He was honored to be part of such a fine team. While there are too many to list individually, the family would like to offer gratitude for their service as well as their unwavering support for John and Kari.

John is preceded in death by his father and mother, as well as his Sister-in-Law, Andi Ward, and niece, Shana Ward. 

A casual Open House Memorial and luncheon will be held on November 3, 2024, at the Depot in Rawlins from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Please join us to share stories, memories, and laughter, and enjoy gathering in John’s honor.