Katie Lou Thompson, a beloved figure and cherished community member, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, at Tampa Gardens ALF in Tampa, Florida.

A funeral service to honor Katie's remarkable life will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at Peace Lutheran Church, located at 745 County Street, Ridgeway, IA 52165, with Pastor Nathan Wicks Presiding. Burial will follow the service at United Lutheran Cemetery, Ridgeway, Iowa.

Born on December 25, 1929, in Shannon, Mississippi, Katie lived a life filled with positivity, dedication, and an unwavering love for family and friends.

Katie's career began in Iowa, where she was first employed in the Winneshiek County Treasurer's office. Her journey continued as she transitioned to the Winneshiek County Recorder's office, working alongside Hoot Ellingson until his retirement. In 1972, Katie took a bold step and ran for the County Recorder position, a testament to her dedication and commitment to public service; she won the position and served diligently until her retirement in 1994.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Katie was known for her vibrant personality. She carried an infectious smile and an optimistic attitude that brightened the lives of everyone she encountered. Katie firmly believed in the power of perspective, often quoting, "I am convinced that Life is 10 percent what happens to me and 90 percent how I react to it." This belief influenced the way she raised her children, instilling in them the importance of treating everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their circumstances.

Katie held many affiliations close to her heart, being a proud member of the Ridgeway American Legion Auxiliary, the VFW, Peace Lutheran Church, and the Business & Professional Women’s group. Her involvement in these organizations reflected her strong connection to the community and her desire to make a positive impact.

A passionate gardener, Katie embraced the beauty of the outdoors, always cultivating a bountiful garden filled with fresh vegetables. She found joy in gardening, which she considered one of her proudest accomplishments and often remarked that Iowa was God's Country. Her culinary skills were equally impressive; Katie was known for her delicious meals, even winning over her husband, Marvin, with her cornbread and turnip greens—a true testament to her love of cooking.

Katie delighted in various hobbies, including knitting, crocheting, baking, cooking, and fishing. Summers were especially precious to her, as she and Marvin would spend them fishing together, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Katie leaves behind a loving family, including her son Gregory (Marlene) Thompson, daughter Judy Thompson (Donald) Berglund, and son Mark (Aldrena) Thompson. Her legacy continues through her granddaughters Sara Thompson Eickoff and Hannah Thompson, her grandsons Ross Thompson and Xavier Thompson, as well as six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews across Mississippi, Florida, Arizona, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Iowa.

Katie rejoins her beloved husband, Marvin Thompson, along with her parents, James Howard Parchman and Mary Audie (Ott) Parchman. She is also preceded in death by her siblings: sisters Louise Jacobs, Mary Wunderle, Nonie Marr, and Evelyn Hendrix, and brother James Howard Parchman Jr. Additionally, she is reunited with her parents-in-law, Sander and Ellen Thompson, and sisters-in-law Edna Engebretson and Junice Casson.

Katie Lou Thompson will be remembered fondly for her warmth, kindness, and the vibrant legacy she leaves behind in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.