Mark E. Thompson

Mark Thompson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on December 8, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 67 years old. Born on November 26, 1957, in Alton, Illinois, Mark was the son of Lois and Gaylord Thompson. He grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep love for his community, traits that stayed with him throughout his life. 

Mark was married to Donna Bushaw in 1985. Mark later married his cherished wife, Diane Thompson, for over 24 years until her passing three years ago. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. Mark was a devoted father to their children and a proud grandfather to their grandchildren, always finding joy in the company of his family. 

Mark spent 36 years of his career at John Deere, where his dedication and expertise earned him the respect of his colleagues. After retiring from John Deere, he remained active and committed to his community. He taught at Eastern Iowa Community College and United Township High School, where his passion for education and mentoring left a lasting impact on his students. Mark also took great pride in maintaining the grounds at United Township High School, a job he held with care and attention to detail. 

Mark’s unwavering strength, kindness, and sense of humor will be remembered by all who knew him. He was a man of integrity, deeply loyal to his family and friends, and always willing to lend a helping hand. His legacy of hard work, dedication to education, and love for his family will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know him. 

Mark is survived by his children, Joseph (Erin) Mumma, Bettendorf, Nicole (Joshua Grage) Mumma, Yelm, Washington, Dustin Thompson, Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, Elizabeth (Gregory) Hartsfield, Viola, and Alec Thompson, Davenport; grandchildren, Rylee, Brady and Kennedy Mumma, Avah Mumma, Shawna and Kurt Anderson, Makaila Craft, Brenner Thompson and Annalise Hartsfield; siblings, Marilee Ashley, Sterling; brothers, Thomas (Marcia) Thompson, Rock Falls, Jeff Thompson, Coleta, IL, and Steve (Norma) Thompson, Dixon, IL; and a wide circle of family and friends who will miss him dearly. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, parents, sister Barbara Ellefson, sister-in-law Cindy Thompson, and brother-in-law Robert Ashley.

Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. Monday December 16, 2024, at Christ United Methodist Church, East Moline. Visitation will be from 2-5 p.m. Sunday December 15, 2024, at Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, Ltd., Moline. Cremation will take place following the visitation and private inurnment will be at Greenview Memorial Gardens, East Moline. Memorials may be made to cancer research and "KAIROS of Illinois" Prison Ministry.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.