Benjamin "Ben" Thompson

Benjamin Dale “Ben” Thompson, age 86, of Mondovi, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 15, 2024 at the American Lutheran Home, Mondovi.

He was born on May 11, 1938 to the late Thomas L. and Helen (Urness) Thompson.

Ben attended Thompson Valley grade school and Mondovi High School.

On July 16, 1966 Ben was united in marriage to Karen Olson in Winona, MN. To this union, two daughters were born. Karen preceded Ben in death on December 13, 2012.

Ben began working at American Motors in Kenosha, before starting a career at Rohrer’s garage in Cochrane. After his time at Rohrer’s Garage, Ben took a custodial position at Cochrane-Fountain City Schools; he worked with the school district until his retirement.

Ben enjoyed time socializing with friends, especially at Donna Mae’s Panther Café in Gilmanton or at Bill Jardine’s Shop just shooting the bull and talking smart. Ben loved his collector tractors, traveling down the Buffalo River Trail on his side by side to Osseo to have pie at the Norske Nook or taking road trips throughout the area just to take in the beautiful scenery. 

Ben took great pride in his appearance and would always make sure that his clothes were pressed, even his jeans needed to have a pressed crease in them. This pride in appearance was also very evident in the way he made sure his vehicles were always spotless and polished. 

Ben will be remembered for his outgoing personality and his signature laugh. Ben quite simply lived his life as he wanted…he lived it to the fullest.

Ben is survived by his two daughters, Tamara Hassell of Ft. Walton Beach, FL and Kathleen (Eric) Gaustad of La Crosse; grandchildren, Tonya Hassell, Erika, Matthew and Samuel Gaustad; great grandchildren, Trevor, Kaison, Elaine, Klaus and one on the way; his super special friend, JoAnne Erickson of Mondovi; also by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Besides his parents, Ben was preceded in death by his wife, Karen; and siblings, Clifford, Raymond, Alger, Agnes Johnston and Bonnie Laehn. 

A celebration of Ben's life will be held on Friday, July 19, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Talbot Family Funeral Home, Mondovi Chapel with Chaplain Gary Preston officiating.  Inurnment will follow at Thompson Valley Cemetery.  A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held on Friday from 11:00 AM until the hour of Ben's celebration.