Ronald Jacobs

Ronald James Jacobs, 90, of Thompson passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at the Good Samaritan Care Center in Forest City. Memorial services were held on Friday, August 2 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Thompson. Inurnment took place at Rose Hill Cemetery in Thompson. Military honors were performed by the Leland Post #6161.                         

Ron was born on October 31, 1933 at the Irish Hospital in Forest City to James and Minnie (Bakken) Jacobs. He was baptized at Winnebago Lutheran Church, rural Lake Mills and started country school near Leland.

In 1940, the family moved to the Jacobs farm south of Thompson. Ron was confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church. He graduated from Thompson High School in 1951. After graduating, he began farming with his father. Ron enlisted in the Army in January of 1954 and completed his basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood. He was stationed in Korea, where he served as mechanic in the Army motor pool. Ron was honorably discharged in December of 1955. After his service, he returned to the family farm.

Ron was united in marriage to Joann Gjerstad on March 8, 1958 at Bethany Lutheran Church. He was an active member of Bethany Lutheran Church, serving on the church council and other church committees. He also served on the Thompson School Board, Winnebago County Soil Conservation board, and was on the board of directors of Heartland Power Cooperative.

The most important thing to Ron was his family. Every summer, the family went on vacation, visiting several states over the years. Ron also enjoyed his annual fishing trips to Canada. Ron enjoyed the hard work and challenges of farming. After retiring from farming, Ron and Joann spent a lot of time camping and attending many bluegrass festivals. He was very proud of his grandchildren and great grandchildren and attended many concerts and sporting events.

Ron is survived by his son, John Jacobs of Thompson; grandchildren: Erin (Jared) Cross of Clarion; Emily (Frank) Anderson of Marion; and Andrew of Crystal, MN; great-grandchildren: Sidney Cross of Sioux City, Brenna Cross and fiancée Coltn O’Donnell of Forest City, Aidan Cross of Clarion, Grace, Owen and Oliver Anderson of Marion. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his wife, Joann; sons: Scott Ronald and David Paul; grandson, Tyler Jacobs; his parents, James and Minnie Jacobs; sister-in-law, Lois (Roger) Halvorson; brother-in-law, Dr. Paul Gjerstad; his grandparents and several aunts and uncles.

Ron’s family would like to thank the staff at Good Samaritan Care Center and St. Croix Hospital for the outstanding care provided to Ron.