Obituary of Richard Frederick Thompson

Richard Frederick Thompson, 77 of Proctor died unexpectedly Tuesday, December 30, 2003 in his home. He was born June 21, 1926 in Duluth to Hans and Louise (Dickert) Thompson. Richard grew up in Twig and attended school in Proctor. He received his GED while in the service and received his diploma in a special ceremony with several other WWII veterans from Proctor High School in 2000. He married Marjorie Summers on September 17, 1949 in Duluth. Richard worked as an electrician for the DM&IR Railroad for 37 years, retiring in 1988. He was a member of the electrical Union and the Electrician Retirees Breakfast Club. He was an Army veteran serving during WWII. Richard was a jack of all trades and could fix anything. He obtained his pilot's license when he was 50 and enjoyed taking family and friends for rides. He was a member of the EAA, AOPA and participated in the Young Eagles Flying Club where he flew more than 50 kids. He was also a longtime member of MENSA. Richard enjoyed entertaining with his guitar, hunting, fishing, telling stories and jokes, and spending time with his family. Richard was preceded in death by a sister, Marie Carlson; brother, Kenneth Thompson; and half-brother, William Thompson. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marjorie of Proctor; children, Nancy (Tom) Cich of Willow River, Gary (Becky) of Saginaw, David of Wisconsin, Debbie Thompson of Hayward, Wisc., Cheryl (Pete) Wirtanen of Saginaw, and Brian of Duluth; sister, Betty Hutchinson of Duluth; half-sister, Ethel Towley of Elk River; twelve grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Private family graveside services were be held in Oneota Cemetery in Duluth. Services entrusted to Northland Funeral Home in Cloquet.