Perry Julian Thompson

Perry Thompson (89) ,of Madelia passed peacefully to Heaven on Tuesday, February 2nd at his home in the warm embrace of his family. Perry Julian Thompson was born March 22nd, 1931 to Pearl (Pederson) Thompson and Earl Thompson on the family farm in rural Hanska where he would live for the next 87 years. He attended country school in Linden township and graduated from Madelia High School in 1949. He completed college in St. Paul at the University of Minnesota School of Agriculture where he was a member of the wrestling team. He served his country with distinction in the Army during the Korean War where he earned his Marksman medal and Good Conduct award. He was honorably discharged in 1954. Upon returning home he married the love of his life, Betty Johnson, at Zion Lutheran Church in Hanska on June 25th 1955. They made their home on the farm where Perry raised crops and also operated a custom herbicide spraying business for nearly 50 years. Their union was blessed with 2 sons Barry in 1956 and Bradly in 1959. After retiring from farming Perry began a new chapter of life by working with people with disabilities at MRCI in New Ulm. His kindness and the guidance he offered made him loved by clients and other staff members alike. Perry and Betty moved from the farm to Madelia in February of 2019. In his role as a community and church leader Perry held many positions. He served on the Madelia School Board, Brown County FmHA board, as President of Faith Lutheran Church and on the Farmers CO-OP of Hanska board of directors. He was a Past Commander of both the American Legion post in Hanska and the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Madelia. Perry was an active and vital man with many hobbies. He and Betty enjoyed cruising, traveling, golfing, snowmobiling, playing cards and watching sports together. They were blessed with many friends whom they loved like family. He was an avid book and newspaper reader and coin collector. He cherished his Bible study group in Lake Crystal and having coffee with his many friends. Perry also loved outdoor activities especially ice fishing and deer hunting. Perry is survived by Betty, his wife of 65 years; sons Barry (Jyl) and Brad (Kathy) of Madelia. Grandchildren Andy of Hanska and Katie of Duluth. Brothers-in-law Curtis Asleson of Mankato, Jim Doering of Richfield and sister-in-law Lois Johnson of Mazeppa and also nine nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Elmira Doering. Perry was a kind and loving man known for his generosity and his sense of humor. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be missed by all who knew him. Due to Covid restrictions no funeral will be held and details of the interment service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home, Pilgrim Chapel in Madelia. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com. Memorials are preferred to Rice Lake Cemetery Association or Faith Lutheran Church of Madelia.