Hazel M. Thompson

Hazel Thompson, 101, formerly of Moline, Illinois, died Tuesday, March 17, 2015 at Barthell Order of Eastern Star Nursing Home in Decorah, Iowa, where she had resided for the past three weeks. A private family service will be held at Fjelstul Funeral Home in Decorah, Iowa on Wednesday, March 25. Interment and a graveside service will take place at the Lyons Cemetery in Lyons, Nebraska on Saturday, March 28, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. Hazel was born March 5, 1914, in Oakland, NE to Harry and Emma Henry. She married Harold Thompson, August 23, 1941, in Lyons, NE, and often expressed how lucky she was to have him as her life partner for the past 73 years. Hazel was an optimist who faced life’s challenges with determination and a smile. She was a 50 plus year breast cancer survivor. In later years, she suffered from macular degeneration and arthritis, but nothing dampened her spirit. This stylish and beautiful lady liked to be busy and had many interests. Throughout the years she was active in many organizations such as the United Methodist Church, Lydia’s Circle, Girl Scouts, Garden Club, RQ, and Home Extension. She was an avid seamstress, knitter, crafter and oil painter. In recent years, she spent much of her time knitting with her cat Minnie sitting on her lap. She also enjoyed her part-time work at the Two Rivers YMCA as a childcare provider. Hazel enjoyed being around people and hosting gatherings in her home. She looked forward to the annual vacation Up North each summer and sharing time with family and friends. She loved and was loved by her family and will be deeply missed. Survivors include her husband, Harold; children: Penny Thompson and Nancy (Rod) Smith of Moline, Illinois and Joe (Rhonda) Thompson of Decorah, Iowa; grandchildren: Lindsey (Matt) Auliff, Anna Smith, Quinn (Megan) Thompson, Collin Thompson and Logan Thompson; sisters and spouses: Darlene (Jim) Strehle of West Point, NE and Maxine (Bob) Englehardt of Ft. Meyers, FL, and brother-in law, Arlin Feyerherm of Lenexa, KS and many nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her father, mother and beloved stepmother, Myrtle Carlson Henry; and by four sisters, five brothers-in-law, two sisters-in-law, two nephews, and infant son, Jimmy. Memorial donations may be made to the Two Rivers YMCA, 2040 53rd Street, Moline, IL 61265.