Rev. John Robert Thompson

On Thursday, April 30th, 2026, at 12:30 A.M. our dearest beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, brother in-law, and Reverend began his journey home to the spirit world to join all those that are already there.

Reverend John Robert Thompson leaves to mourn his wife Reverend Elenor Thompson; children Victor Grieves, John (Freyja), and Joshua (Jocelyn) Thompson; grandchildren Kahyanehwo, Aria, and Brynja Thompson, and Kaylee Wood, Evelyn, Minnow (Tomena), and Joshua Thompson Jr; by custom adoption, Betsy Lynn Crane (Myles) and Vanessa Grieves; his twin brother Reverend Jim Thompson (Louise) and his twin sister Jean Cummings, along with many nephews, nieces, colleagues, friends and community members.

John is pre-deceased by his son Lennie-Dennis, his parents Robert and Evelyn Thompson, and his brother David Thompson (Vera), his Brother-in-Law Tony Cummings, his nephew George Cummings and his grandparents Herbert and Jenny Hutton and George Thompson.

Born in Belleville, Ontario, on February 25, 1942, John began his life in a way as special and rare as the life he went on to lead. He was the youngest of the Thompson triplets—Jean, Jim, and John. He spent his youth in Ontario, and his young adulthood exploring Canada and the world.  In June 1966 to July 1968 John and his brother Jim embarked on a life changing journey that took them to over 30 countries across Europe, East and Central Africa, and Southeast Asia, including Pakistan, India, and Japan. Upon his return to Canada, John finished his studies at the University of Toronto and was ordained by the United Church in 1971.  In 1974 his travels took him to northern Manitoba, including South Indian Lake and Oxford House, Manitoba, where he met the love of his life, Elenor. They were married in 1977, and they were blessed with four sons. 

John lived a life of faith, service, and deep compassion for others. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and he cared deeply for the communities he served. He was a gentle, thoughtful man who had room in his heart for everyone. He offered comfort in times of sorrow, guidance in times of uncertainty, and reminded us to cherish the gifts of each moment. His quiet strength, humour, humility, and kindness defined him, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew him.

In letters written to his family in his final days, his wish for them, and for all of us, was to follow the good path: humility, love, courage, truth, honesty, and wisdom. He lived those teachings every day. He was, truly, a Good Shepherd, and his love will continue to guide us.

Wake service to be held on Monday, May 4th, 2026, at Eternal Grace Funerals, from 7:00pm-11:00pm.

Officiating service is Reverend Evelyn Broadfood, Reverend Olive Flett, and the Very Reverend Stan McKay.

 On May 5, 2026, the family, led by the Board of Education, will return to Oxford House. The family will make a courtesy visit to the Personal Care Home and then participate in two nights of wake services at Vernon Grieves Memorial United Church, in Bunibonibee Cree Nation.

Funeral service to be held on Thursday, May 6th, 2026, at 1972 Memorial High School.

Officiating service is Reverend Murray Pruden.

Interment to follow.

2 Timothy 4:7 
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

1 Corinthians 13:7 (ESV) 
"Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."

Isaiah 41:10 
"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, help you, and uphold you with my righteous right hand."

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rev. John Robert Thompson, please visit our floral store.