James Thompson, Sr., 81, died on Sunday, September 18, 2005 at his home in Thief River Falls, MN.

Graveside services will be on Thursday, September 22, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. at the Vang Cemetery in Vang, ND.

Visitation will be from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, September 21, 2005 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN.

James Thompson, Sr. was born on May 16, 1924 in Naikum, Sask., Canada, the son of Peter (Ben) Benal and Hilda (Knutson) Thompson. He attended school in the hills near Walhalla, ND.

James was united in marriage to Doris Craven on October 16, 1945 in Cavalier, ND. He worked for Butler Construction, Grand Forks, ND, Vic Kaste Construction, East Grand Forks, MN, Valley Construction, Grand Forks and Paul Larson Construction, East Grand Forks. James also farmed for Lenord Swanson, south of Thief River Falls for a few years.

James loved visiting with his great grandchildren and enjoyed hunting, fishing and woodworking. He was proud of his Norwegian Heritage and had a good sense of humor, James could talk to anyone. He taught himself to play the Banjo. James sang and played his entire life.

James is survived by his wife, Doris of Thief River Falls, MN; three children: Betty Nelson of Grand Forks, ND, James Thompson, Jr. of Thief River Falls, MN and Vickie (Loren) Ho of Thief River Falls, MN; 9 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and all his brothers and sisters: Billy, Alice, Shirley, Inez and Harvey.

Condolences may be sent to the family www.johnsonfuneralservice.com

ARRANGEMENTS WITH JOHNSON FUNERAL SERVICE, 218-681-4331, FAX NUMBER, 218-681-4534