Norman John “Jack” Thompson – A Life Well Lived

Jack Thompson was born on October 21, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois as the much-loved second child of Norman and Elaine (Hanifin) Thompson. 

He grew up giving his older sister, Linda, a hard time, and later welcomed his younger brother, Steve, who always looked up to him. After the family relocated to Akron, Ohio for his father’s work with Firestone Tires, Jack graduated from Buchtel High School in 1960 and joined the Navy. Serving aboard the USS Kitty Hawk in communications, he played a part in history during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the early years of the Vietnam War.

When his service ended, Jack set out West to Denver and San Francisco in search of adventure and joy. Driving his VW Microbus back to Akron a few years later, fate stepped in—he met Kathy Kiefer, the love of his life. Together they studied at Akron University, marched in protests, went to concerts, and began building a circle of lifelong friends.

By 1970, Jack and Kiefer returned West, settling in Fort Collins, Colorado. Jack pursued a Master’s Degree in Sociology, taught part time, and even joined archaeological digs across the region. On June 21st, 1975 they were married in their backyard with friends and family. The 1970s gave him time to explore, work odd jobs, and relish the freedom of adulthood.

In the late 70’s, Jack found his calling in the outdoor clothing industry. Representing several companies throughout his career, he and Kiefer traveled the West showing new clothing lines. Jack was a natural salesman—charming, witty, and always impeccably dressed. He had a gift for making people feel seen, and he loved being in the middle of the action.

In 1980, Jack and Kiefer settled in Denver, Colorado and by December they welcomed their son, Adam. Four years later, their daughter, Haley, arrived, and the couple became a family of four. Parenthood grounded Jack in new ways, but never slowed him down. After a short period working in Jackson Hole, Wyoming—where he balanced work with days on the Jackson Hole golf course—the family eventually put down roots in Salt Lake City, UT. 

Utah was where Jack thrived. He was happiest outdoors—hiking mountains, skiing in the winters, exploring deserts, and pouring his pride into his yard, mowing every line just so. More than that, he cherished raising Adam and Haley, watching them grow into the people he was so proud of. Jack’s love was steady, supportive, and unquestionable. Family dinners often included laughter and stories. Later, Haley’s husband Christian Benzon, who Jack welcomed warmly as one of his own, joined the family.

When Jack retired from Woolrich Outdoor Clothing Co. in 2010, he fully embraced life on his terms. He woke when he pleased, spent time with family, and enjoyed every corner of Utah. He was never one to turn down a social gathering or chance to be part of what his loved ones were doing. Jack lived big, but he loved even bigger.

He is survived by his beloved wife and partner of 58 years, Kiefer; his children, Adam Thompson and Haley (Christian) Benzon; and his adored grandchildren, Henry, Andrew, and Louie Benzon. He also leaves behind his siblings, extended family, and a lifetime of dear friends.

Jack will be deeply missed, but his humor, warmth, and love will live on in the people and memories he shaped. 

A Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, October 18th, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm (2100 South 601 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84106), where family and friends can gather to share stories, eat food and listen to good music just like Jack would have liked. 

A graveside service will be on Saturday, October 25th, 2025 at 10:00 am at Elysian Gardens (1075 East 4580 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84117).

The family will be attending Mass at St Vincent de Paul Parish October 25th at 5pm and welcome anyone wanting to join (1375 Spring Ln, Salt Lake City, UT 84117).