Rev. Joe Benjamin Thompson Age 82, of Rice Lake, WI died Saturday, July 27, 2019 at the Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin, Illinois.

He was born on May 7, 1937 in New Auburn, WI to Joseph and Josephine (Waters) Thompson. Joe graduated from the New Auburn High School, then attended Barron County Teachers College in Rice Lake and then was drafted in the United States Army where he was in the Army Intelligence and Trombonist in the Band. He worked for Honeywell for 15 years as a machinist. Joe was married to Helen Leppioja on May 22, 1971 in Minneapolis, MN. He was a pastor in many churches, was a Sunday School Superintendent, a chaplain and youth director. Joe loved Jesus, his wife, children all people and teaching. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was a sportsman. He loved being outdoors, taking walks and enjoying the scenery and seasons.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Thompson of Rice Lake, WI; 5 children, Mary Thompson of Winsted, MN, Tammy Gladue of Young America, MN, Mark Thompson of Lisbon, Illinois, Jeremiah Thompson of Rice Lake and Christie (Tim) Blischke of Sleepy Hollow, Illinois; 3 grandchildren, Dakota, Adam and Bowen; sisters-in-law and spouses, Pearl (Fred) Houle, Faye (Clyde) Peer and Marion (Jeff) Johnson; many nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Josephine Thompson; a brother, Lester Thompson and a sister, Angeline (Ray) Samuelson.

Funeral Services will be held at 11AM Monday, August 5, 2019 at the First Lutheran Church in Rice Lake, with Rev. Fred Buth officiating, with interment in the New Auburn Cemetery in New Auburn, WI. Military Rites will be accorded him by the Rice Lake Veteran Honor Guard. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the Funeral Service at the Church on Monday.

Last Update: Jul 31, 2019 6:57 am CDT