Herbert A. “Herb” Thompson
Herbert Arthur “Herb” Thompson, 96, gave up his earthly struggle on Wednesday, August 26, 2020, to journey peacefully onto his next life.
Herb was born April 13, 1924, at the home on Thompson Ridge, Towne of Portland, to Arthur and Dorothy (Finch) Thompson. Growing up in the farming community, he chose farming as his own profession, but also had a profound fascination for mechanical things, especially for old tractors and antique farm equipment. He was also an avid hunter and loyal NRA member.
Herb served his country during WWII in the USMC from 1943-1945, his duty being served in Okinawa and the Chinese provinces. Following military service, he worked as a machinist in West Bend for a period of time before returning to Portland in order to take up farming.
In January 1951, Herbert married Charlene R. Brown. They farmed and raised their family on Thompson Ridge until 1976, when their son, Bud, took over the farming operation. Herb and Charlene divorced shortly after. In June of 1986, Herb married again, to Helen Beardsley of Trempealeau. Together, they enjoyed traveling and both loved to dance. They belonged to several area dance clubs and had many friends who enjoyed the same interests. Herb also enjoyed going to many antique tractor shows and old-time thresherees, with his good friend, Jim Ziegler. During this time, Herb worked part-time as a janitor for Tremplo Tool and Die Co., which he continued until age 91 when health issues began to limit some of his activities.
Herb is survived by one daughter, Nancy A. Leis; daughter-in-law, Sandra; three grandchildren and their respective partners; and several great grand-children. Herb is further survived by a sister-in-law, Dorothy Thompson; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family; plus his “special family”, Dave and Linda Meyer and their son, Zack.
Herb was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Dorothy; sister, Alice Thomas and her husband, Erwin”EJ” Thomas; a brother, Harley Thompson; a sister, Lorraine Rosenow-Vargo and her husband, Eldor Rosenow, and second husband, Ernie Vargo. Also having preceded Herb was his son, Herbert Jr. “Bud” Thompson; Herb’s wife, Helen; and his first wife, Charlene.
Private family graveside services with full military honors will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery in Sparta, at a later date.
Herb was a kind and gentle soul, loved and respected by those who knew him. In these uncertain and difficult times of separation and social distancing, please remember Herb and celebrate his life in your own special way. Memorials may be directed to Freedom Honor Flight in Herb’s name.
Torkelson Page-Smith Funeral Home of Sparta is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneral
home.com.
