Tragic dad John Thompson '˜fun-loving and quite an entertainer'

Tributes have poured in for John Thompson whose body was found after he went missing in the Portstewart area last weekend.
John Thompsons body was found in the River Bann on MondayJohn Thompsons body was found in the River Bann on Monday
John Thompsons body was found in the River Bann on Monday

The 56-year-old’s body was found in the River Bann on Monday.

Earlier a PSNI spokesman said police are not treating the death as suspicious.

Ballyclare councillor David Arthurs, who knew Mr Thompson, said he had been a “fun-loving man and very much into his family”.

John ThompsonJohn Thompson
John Thompson

“He had a son Mark and a daughter Megan and he was very close to them. John was just very outgoing and quite an entertainer. He played the flute and had played in a local band.

“He moved from Ballyclare to Portstewart and was into entertainment there too.

“His passing has been a big shock to everyone who knew him as you can see from the reaction on Facebook.”

The UUP councillor said he was in contact with Megan Thompson on Monday night and “she was very thankful for all the help they had received”.

John ThompsonJohn Thompson
John Thompson

Former Northern Ireland goalkeeper Tommy Wright also expressed his condolences to the Thompson family.

In a Facebook post he said: “Sorry to hear of sad news for Thompson family, great memories growing up with John in particular playing cricket in his yard, at the High School and in The Windies cricket team.

“Thoughts and prayers with all the family at this very sad time xx.”

Also on Facebook Michael Turkington wrote: “Virtually grew up in the Thompson household and spent many hours playing cricket in their yard with Simon & John.

“He bowled like lightning and batted like a star! Wonderful memories RIP mate.”

Other Facebook posts also told of their sadness at the Portstewart man’s passing.

“So sad to hear of the sudden passing of my acquaintance Jonny. I met Jonny thru work and had many an entertaining afternoon with him in my various care homes over the years. A very talented flautist and had a caring way with my residents. RIP Jonny.”

And another post read: “Finding it hard to believe that we have lost Jonny. I will always remember him for his love of music, we loved to hear him sing and play. Also for his energy and enthusiasm, riding his bike around Portstewart looking tanned and healthy. Always a big smile on his face, and full of laughter and fun.

“Rest easy Jonny, you’re going to be missed so much.”

Meanwhile, Ballyclare Victoria Flute Band also paid tribute to “their highly esteemed former member John” and extended their sympathy to his family.

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