Arlene Thompson

While awaiting the return of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Arlene Bernice Thompson’s earthly body failed her at the age of 73 after a decade long fight with diabetes Friday, September 10 at St. Mary’s Innovis Hospital in Detroit Lakes, MN with her family by her side.   As she tarried in life she worshiped the Lord, strived to know more about him and do his work, leaving a legacy of ministry through her children and grandchildren.

Arlene was born April 12, 1937 to John and Mabel Watland in Knox, North Dakota where she grew up on the family farm. After the death of her father, as a teenager, the Lord directed her path to Detroit Lakes, MN where she worked and attended high school, graduating in 1955. There she met her future husband Darold Thompson and married him August 27, 1955 at the Assemblies of God Church. She cherished being a Wife, Mother and especially a Grandmother. She also greatly enjoyed the birds, rocks and flowers in her many gardens around the farm house.

Arlene felt it was extremely important to instruct her children and grandchildren, as well as others, in the ways of our Lord. She also worked hard to perpetuate the genealogies of both her and her husband’s families.

Arlene will be remembered and deeply missed by her husband of 55 years, Darold Thompson of Detroit Lakes, her children: Doyle (Lori) Thompson of Detroit Lakes, MN, Pastor Mark (Luaranne) Thompson of Braidwood, IL, Pastor Barton (Milissa) Thompson of Inver Grove Heights, MN and Darla (Ed) Beek of Bloomington, MN. She is also survived by her nine precious Grandchildren: Amanda, Amy, Jena, Bryan, Kristen, Zac, David, Erika and Jared along with one brother: John (Joan) Watland of Detroit Lakes, MN, two sisters: January (Bob) Helgeson of Maddock, ND and Carol Housier of Baraboo, WI and many nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends.