Richard Verdayne Thompson

Richard Verdayne Thompson, 81, of Lanesboro, died Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2012, at the Harmony Community Health Care Center.

Richard was born June 28, 1931, to Charley A. Thompson and Elfrieda (Olness) Thompson. He was baptized at Union Prairie Lutheran Church, and graduated from Lanesboro High School in 1949. He served in the US Air Force from April 1951 to April 1955. Richard built grain bins in western states until he came back to farm in 1960.

He enjoyed his vegetable, raspberries and flower gardens and enjoyed doing shop projects, and working on his cars. Richard is a member of the American Legion of Lanesboro, Post # 40 and of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Richard is survived by two sisters, Milicent (Robert) Pehrson of La Selva Beach, Calif., and Berniece Thompson of Albert Lea; a nephew, Gregory Pehrson and a niece, Crystal Pehrson (Johnson).

A memorial service will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Chruch in Lanesboro, Tuesday, Nov. 20, with Rev. Kerry Eversole officiating. Visitation will be for one hour at the church before the service.

Military rites will be performed by the American Legion Post #40 after the service in the church. There will be a private burial at a later date at the Union Prairie Lutheran Cemetery in rural Lanesboro.

Johnson-Riley Funeral Home in Lanesboro is in charge of arrangements. www.rileyfuneralhomes.com 507-867-4310.