Donald Thompson

Donald Arvid Thompson, age 88, of Lake Crystal, died Tuesday, August 10, 2004 at Lake Crystal Health Care Center.

Funeral service 11:00 a.m. Friday at the First United Methodist Church in Lake Crystal, with Rev. Amy Jo Bur, officiating. Interment in Mt. Hope Cemetery, St. James. Visitation TODAY from 4-7 p.m. at Lake Crystal Mortuary and continues one hour before services at church on Friday. Memorials may be given to an organization of the donors choice.

Donald was born April 13, 1916 in Rosendale Township, Watonwan County to Theodore and Freida (Nelson) Thompson who raised him to be a very hardworking, honest, and loving man. Donald married Edna Mildred Knudson on April 22, 1939 at Estherville, Iowa. With Edna always by his side, Donald farmed, operated his own construction business, and raised a family. In 1968 Donald began work for Mankato State University as a bricklayer and mason. His work is still evident on campus. Retiring in 1981, he kept busy helping others with building projects and kept on farming by amassing a large collection of John Deere model implements. Donald was a dedicated member of the First Methodist Church, where he and Edna served in many capacities. Most important was helping and taking care of his family. He lived to help the kids, spoil the grandkids, take trips to the lake, and get togethers with family.

Donald is survived by his best girl and wife of 65 years, Edna; son, Donald (Phyllis) Thompson of Hillman; daughter, Dianna (Robert) Wittmers of Minnetonka; 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, LaVerne (Lois) Thompson, Milton (Beverly) Thompson all of St. James; sister, Leila (Merlyn) Bjorklund of Mankato; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Preceded in death by sister, Violet Ellis; daughter, Eldora Mae Uhde; great-grandson, Erik.