John Robert Thompson OBITUARY

John Robert Thompson OBITUARY

John Thompson passed away on July 13, 2026, on his 62nd birthday, after a valiant battle with cancer. He faced his illness with courage and grace, surrounded by the love of his family until the end. John was born in Owensboro, Kentucky, the youngest of seven children. His mother passed away when he was just 8 years old. John’s father and older siblings instilled in John a strong work ethic and confidence that allowed John to become independent and resilient. At 17, John left home, eventually making his way to the Chicago area, where he worked his way up through various restaurant jobs — rising to a management position at a national chain restaurant before at the age of 20 years old. Though he never pursued a college education, John built a remarkable career in the logistics industry through hard work and determination. He became one of the most senior employees at American Backhaulers, which was sold to C.H. Robinson in 1999. In 2002, John took an entrepreneurial leap, co-founding American Transport Group, which continues to operate successfully to this day. At the age of 20, John met the love of his life, Marnie Cohn, who would become his wife and lifelong partner. The two married in 1988, and their devoted partnership spanned nearly 42 years. Together, they made their home a gathering place — a magnet for family and friends who came together there for celebrations, or simply to spend time in each other’s company. John will be remembered for his devotion to family and friends, his fierce work ethic, his strong moral compass, his enjoyment of fishing and the outdoors, and his love of music — especially the Grateful Dead and other jam bands. He is survived by his wife, Marnie Thompson; his children, Jack Thompson (Amanda), Eric Thompson, and Valerie Thompson; and his siblings, Ray Thompson, Marie Robinson, Trudy Dean, Deborah Peech, Joe Thompson, and Gerlene Smith. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, or a charity of your choice.