Rapid City J. Rodger Thomson took the hand of Jesus and went home on December 8, 2011. Rodger passed away at Rapid City Regional Hospital after courageously fighting a lengthy illness. Rodger was born on March 12, 1941 in Deadwood, SD to James Michael and Leota Thomson. He grew up in the Black Hills and graduated from Sturgis High School in 1959. Rodger joined the United States Navy in June of 1959 and served aboard the USS Oriskany during his four years of service. Upon returning to Rapid City, he married the love of his life, Joann Marshall on April 18, 1964 in Deadwood, SD. Rodger and Joann met as little kids and eventually found their way back to each other. They were blessed with three daughters: Kelly, Denise, and Christine. Rodger worked numerous jobs in the Rapid City area until taking a job at Western Airlines in June of 1968. In 1986, he transferred to Juneau, Alaska, continuing his work at Western Airlines until Delta took over. He and Joann lived a life that few can only imagine. Many days were spent on the waters aboard their boat, The Snow Goose, a pride and joy to Rodger. When not working or fishing, he was privileged to be able to fly all over Alaska in a float plane. Hunting the big game was his passion though. He enjoyed many Alaskan adventures with his family and friends. He was blessed to spend time hunting and fishing in Alaska with his good friend, Buster Cleveland. Rodgers biggest trophy was his 9 foot grizzly that still hangs in his house today. In 1992, he and Joann returned to South Dakota where he retired after 35 years of service for the airlines. Rodger was a very adventurous person who loved the outdoors. For 18 years, he was lucky enough to go elk hunting in Colorado with good friends and brothers. Sixteen of his 18 years were successful, but most of all, the time spent with his friends and family in the mountains, was the greatest trophy of them all. Rodger was a gifted artist with a great sense of humor. He was compassionate, loving and a devoted husband and father. Life was never dull or boring when he was a round. He and Joann and the 3 girls enjoyed traveling, camping, skiing, fishing, and just spending time together. Vacations to Hawaii were very special. Rodger and Joann were blessed to have been married for 47 years. Things were not always easy, but those were the times that brought the family closer. Rodger is survived by his wife: Joann Thomson of Rapid City; daughters: Kelley [Allen] Comp and Denise [Vinh] Nguyen all of Rapid City; six grandchildren: Natasha Milacek, Kristopher and Cameron Abreu, Nicolette Thomson, and Asia and Jade Nguyen; one great-granddaughter: Trinity Livermore; one sister: Darlene [Bill] Ziegenbein of Piedmont; one brother: Paul [Helen] Thomson of Sun City, AZ; and mother and father-in-law: Chester and Arvilla Marshall of Buffalo, Wyoming. He was preceded in death by his parents: James and Leota Thomson; brothers: Ervin and Junior and a sister: Louise Parsons. On June 24, 2006, Rodger and Joann lost their beautiful daughter Christine. There was always sadness in his eyes after her death. His eyes no longer hold the sadness, but sparkle in the lights of heaven. Sleep with Angels. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm Tuesday, December 13 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home, 2700 Jackson Boulevard. Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00 am Wednesday, December 14 at Rimrock Evangelical Free Church, 12200 West Highway 44 with Pastor Steve Balsley officiating. Burial will take place at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, December 14 at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with Military Honors by Rushmore VFW Post #1273 and South Dakota National Guard.