U.S. Veteran

Harold J. Thompson Jr.

Visitation Date: Friday, July 23, 2021
Visitation Time: 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Funeral Date: Saturday, July 24th, 2021
Funeral Time: 10:30 am
Place of Funeral: St. Luke Church
Funeral Notes: Prayers and final viewing will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday morning at the Funeral Home. Mask is required for Non-Vaccinated attendees.
Interment: St. Mary Catholic Cemetery

Harold J. Thompson Jr., age 95, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2021. He was born on February 25, 1926 to the late Harold and Kathryn Thompson in Chicago, Illinois. Harold dedicated his life to public service. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and was promoted to sergeant. After returning home, he continued his career of service as a Chicago firefighter. He started on Engine 38 in 1954 and was promoted to engineer in 1967. Harold was assigned to Engine 77 in 1969 where he spent the remainder of his illustrious career. He was an active member of the Board of Chicago Firefighters Credit Union from 1980 to 2019 finishing his role as chairman of the board in his 90s.

Harold was as dedicated to his faith and family as he was to public service. He was a devout Catholic who attended Mass every week until he passed. Harold diligently cared for his mother until she left us and served as a surrogate grandfather to his cousins. He travelled the country until his late 80s visiting dear family and friends in multiple states. His sense of humor was unmatched by any other which brought joy to all those he met. Harold blessed his family and friends with his love, generosity, and unparalleled quick wit. His legacy and spirit will live on forever in all of those who had the honor of knowing him.

Funeral Saturday 9:30 a.m. from Salerno’s Galewood Chapels, Sciaraffa Funeral Directors, 1857 N. Harlem Avenue, Chicago, 60707 to St. Luke Church, 7600 W. Lake Street, River Forest, 60305 for Mass at 10:30 a.m. Interment St. Mary Cemetery in Lake Forest, IL. Visitation Friday 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Mask is required for non-vaccinated attendees. For information call (773) 889-1700.

Guestbook


Posted by:
Herb Reilly

Posted on:
Friday, July 23, 2021

Very sad to hear of Harold’s passing. The world has lost another great man! Rest In Peace , Herb Reilly

Posted by:
Gina Miller

Posted on:
Thursday, July 22, 2021

I was always excited when cousin Harold came to visit as a kid. There was lots of laughter, stories and good food. I helped fill the bowl with peanuts as he loved them and looked forward to the surprises he brought. When I visited him at his condo in the city we sat and talked for hours and he took me to dinner at his favorite neighborhood place. A kind soul, full of stories and fun. I hope he and Herbie are golfing away up there 🙂

Posted by:
Ginger Baca

Posted on:
Wednesday, July 21, 2021

I have so many fond memories of you, Harold. Your annual visits to see us in Florida were always an exciting event to us as children. When I visited you as an adult, I remember so clearly your old-world charm and peaceful demeanor. Thank you for having a presence in our lives, despite such a far distance between us.

Posted by:
Donald & Shirley Barzano

Posted on:
Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Harold has been taken away to a better place but still resides here in our hearts. He exemplified the meaning of Family and it was our great pleasure to have him in ours. We will always remember the meals, the golf outings, the family celebrations, the table talk, the wisdom and joy he brought. All the memories of our shared times will remain with us. We love him and will miss him.