January 30, 2008 Obits

Samuel Thompson passed away peacefully Friday January 25, 2008 at the age of 96 years, at the Continuing Care Facility in Drumheller, Alberta, with family at his side. He is survived by his wife Viola (Hewson) and children, Sandra (Butch) Walters, Gordon (Dawn) Thompson, Margaret (Frank) Lewis, Bruce (Julie) Thompson, Don (Kathy) Thompson, Brenda (David) Daly and William (Gwen) Thompson. Samuel is also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, five step children, family and friends. Samuel was pre-deceased by his first wife Ruth, son Robert, brothers Jim and Cecil, and sister Grace and numerous sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. Sam was born on April 6, 1911, at the family home, near Victor Hall, north of Delia. He was the second son and was named after his father, so he became known as Sammie, or Sam. Jr. As a young man, he purchased the Diegel farm located one mile north of Surprise School. On March 22, 1944 he married Ruth Margaret Bates, and together they raised seven children: Sandra, Gordon, Margaret, Bruce, Don, Brenda and Bill. Sam enjoyed farming until the sudden death of Ruth in April of 1979. He then retired to Drumheller and his son, Donald, took over Madison Farms. He married Viola Hewson in 1981, and then travelled extensively around the world visiting Hawaii, Europe, Australia, and the Panama Canal. They also enjoyed trips in their motor home to various locations in Canada and the United States. Sam and Viola enjoyed almost 25 years of marriage. Four years ago, Sam’s body and mind began to fail, and he became a resident of the Continuing Care Facility in Drumheller. The family was told that Sammie was a favorite of the staff, and he received excellent care. Sam enjoyed playing cards, gardening, the music of Johnny Cash and Bobby Hoy, singing in the choir, ice cream of any flavor, fruit (Saskatoons, grapes, and watermelon were his favorites,) attending church, a good argument, a good joke, and visiting with families and friends (even people he didn’t know). All these traits have been passed along to the next generation, especially the love of ice cream and the good argument. Sam raised Purebred Aberdeen Angus cattle for many years. He and his brother, Jim travelled to many bull sale in Calgary, Stettler, Lacombe, Cereal and numerous other towns in Alberta. He took great pride in his herd and cared for them very well. Sam always said that Jim grew the cattle, and he grew the grain. But Jim also said that if he needed to know anything he could ask Sam as he had the great memory. Sam also was an active member of the Masonic Lodge in Craigmyle for many years, and enjoyed serving in different positions. He was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star. After attending the Passion Play in Europe, he came home determined to support a Passion Play in Drumheller. He was very pleased to have his vision fulfilled. Sam and Viola were also strong supporters of the Rosebud Theatre. A celebration of Sam’s life will be held at the Delia United Church at 1 p.m. on Friday, February 1, 2008. A luncheon will follow at the Delia Community Hall. Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Home.