Carol LaMae Thompson

Carol was born in Beresford, South Dakota on June 20, 1926 to Alvin and Alice Edblom. She had a younger sister, Joan, and brother, John. They all grew up on the farm together enjoying a life of hard work and the benefits that come from being a close-knit family.

Carol attended Beresford High School and got her first job at age 14 ironing shirts and handkerchiefs for a local State Senator. After high school graduation Carol attended 1 year of college prior to working for the owner of a local business in Sioux Falls. One workday, while taking the elevator downstairs on an errand, Carol encountered a handsome young gentleman from her high school days named Bob Thompson. Little did she know that he was carrying a bouquet of flowers searching for her to ask her out on a first date. After dating for a time, Bob chose to explore work opportunities in Oregon with hopes of building a future together with Carol there. At the age of 21, with her love for Bob and the strength of her mother’s advice “You’ve got a voice. Use it”, Carol hopped on a bus for a solo trip to Oregon to determine if she could live there too. They soon returned to South Dakota and got married on August 5th, 1947.

Upon their return to Oregon, they worked hand in hand to raise their 4 children on a fruit and vegetable farm and later a nursery. Carol was instrumental in teaching her children the value of hard work, self-discipline, and commitment. She enjoyed family dinners, planning potlucks including all relatives, playing games, and being together. She and Bob enjoyed time with friends in a pinochle group and bowling league. Carol was an avid supporter of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren’s activities including sports and theatre. Growing hearty vegetable gardens bordered by colorful flowers was a yearly joy that she shared with others. Traveling locally and internationally was something Carol loved to plan and do. Some of her favorites were visiting London to see her son Greg, and family trips to the beach.

Carol was a longstanding member of Trinity Lutheran Church, faithfully participating in Esther Circle and participating in other volunteer activities. She also quietly gave of her time and service by visiting and assisting those who could not get out on their own.

Carol is preceded in death by her husband Bob of 56 years, and her son, Greg (2019). She is survived by her daughters Linda (Larry), Nancy (Dan), Sara (Scott), 6 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren.

A visitation for Carol will be held Monday, October 6, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home, 520 W Powell Blvd, Gresham, OR 97030. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church at 507 W. Powell Blvd. in Gresham, Oregon 97030.