Brian W. Thompson

Brian W. Thompson, age 81, of Kendall, Wisconsin died on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Fairview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Mauston.

Brian was born on April 1, 1944, in Mauston, Wisconsin, to Laura Eleanor (Ormson) and William Thompson. He grew up in Kendall and attended local schools before graduating from Royall High School in 1963. His high school years were marked by a significant challenge-while working at a gas station, Brian was severely injured in a fire accident and spent over a year recovering at the UW burn unit. With strength and determination, he returned to school and completed his education. On May 21, 1966, Brian married Elaine Pasch, beginning a beautiful 59-year journey together. They met through his sister, Joan, who was married to Elaine's uncle-a connection that brought two lives together and formed a lasting bond. Brian spent a few years working for the Milwaukee Railroad, then dedicated over 30 years of service as a federal employee at Fort McCoy. He even got the opportunity to serve his country as a civilian during the Gulf War in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia where he helped establish communication lines. After retirement, his drive and commitment led him back to work for another five years as a contractor, serving as a liaison between the government and civilians. A man of strong faith, Brian was a member of St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church South Ridge. He found peace and joy in the outdoors, spending much of his free time hunting, fishing, and volunteering with the Kendall Rod and Gun Club, where he helped release trout and pheasants into the wild.

Brian was a quiet man, known for his quick wit and thoughtful presence. He may not have spoken often, but when he did, his words were meaningful and often memorable. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and love him.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine; children, Ben (Lori) Thompson, and Brett (Laurel) Thompson; grandchildren, Rebekah (Ryan) Demski, Elisha (Kyle) McConville, Sarah (Justin) Repka, Emma (Geoffery) Curry, Alec Thompson, Seth and Luke Merkes; great-grandchildren; Chloe and Evelyn McConville; Siblings, Joan Pasch of Kendall, Mary (Dave) Weber of Webster S.D., Richard (Judah) Thompson of Tomah; and his sister-in-law, Donna Thompson of Zephyrhills, FL. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Carl Thompson, Jim Thompson, Beverly Hensel, and Lyle Thompson; brothers-in-law, Gilbert Pasch and Fred Hensel; sisters-in-law, Clara Thompson, Donna Thompson, and Julie Thompson; and daughter-in law, Stephanie Thompson.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025, 11:00 AM at St. Matthew Ev. Lutheran Church (South Ridge), 25525 County Highway P, Ontario, WI. Burial will be at the South Ridge Lutheran Cemetery. Pastor Zachary Meier will officiate.

Relatives and friends are invited for a time of visitation on Sunday, August 24, 2025, 4PM until 7PM at the church and again on Monday, August 25, 2025, 10AM until the time of service. The Smith-Nelson- Sonnenburg Funeral Home is assisting the family

with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.