Laura Jane Thompson

Laura Jane Thompson, born on October 26, 1961, in Mason City, Iowa, passed away on March 4, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa, after experiencing complications from Sarcoidosis. Laura was raised and resided in Clear Lake before moving to the Des Moines area.

Laura dedicated over 21 years to Kemin Industries, where she began her career as a cost accountant. She advanced through various roles, ultimately serving as the ERP Business Processes IT Manager of an international team. She thrived in the challenge of her position, and she built bonds as strong as family with many of her coworkers.

Laura was not only defined by her professional achievements; she was also known for her humor, her warmth, and her compassion. She spent many years giving cuddles and a comfy bed to senior dogs she adopted after promising her scrappy rescue named Daisy that she’d continue doing so in her honor.

She was not only endlessly supportive of all her family’s paths and ambitions, cheering them on was one of her greatest joys. She is survived by her sons, Nigel Thompson (Franci Rodriquez-Rivera) of Waukee and Zach Thompson (Clair Thomas) of West Des Moines, along with her cherished grandchildren, Dylan and Kaylee Thompson-Rodriguez and her grand-fur babies Alpha, Annabel, Murphy and Jenny, whom she spoiled like it was her job.

Laura was an avid antique collector, often spending time shopping for unique pieces to give new life. She also enjoyed exploring local cuisine and going to the movies, with a particular fondness for suspense and thriller films.

Laura is also survived by her brother, John Schramm; her sister, Susan Weipert; her nephew, Nick Weipert; her nieces, Julia Clay and Katy Weipert; her grandniece, Erica Duffy; as well as numerous extended family members and friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and generosity. She was preceded in death by her parents, Reuben and Jean Schramm. A celebration of Laura's life will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Iowa Tap Room (Joliet Room) 215 East 3rd St., #100, Des Moines, IA 50309, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (guests are welcome to stop by anytime during the time period mentioned.)

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed in Laura's memory to: Foundation for Sacroidosis Research  https://www.stopsarcoidosis.org/donate/