Joan Louise Thompson

Joan "Jo" L. Thompson, 94, of East Grand Forks, MN, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Essentia Health in Fargo, ND, surrounded by the family she so dearly loved.

Jo was born on April 14, 1931, in Leonard, North Dakota, to Arne and Mabel (Buvick) Bratland. She grew up in rural Leonard, where her deep appreciation for nature and beauty began. After graduating from Leonard High School in 1949, she went to work at Manchester Biscuit Company in Fargo.

In 1951, she married John Bartholomay, and together they raised their family while Jo worked as a seamstress and began to share her artistic talents. Whether with oil paints, watercolor or a simple pencil, Jo always had the ability to create something beautiful. Teaching art became one of her greatest joys, she inspired countless students in Grand Forks, at the Air Force Base, and in Buxton with her patience, skill, and enthusiasm.

On December 27, 1980, Jo married Frank Thompson, and the two built a life filled with love, laughter, and creativity. Their home at Grace Lake and later in Park Rapids was not only a gathering place for friends and family but also for art and music. Together they ran the Wildside Gallery, where Jo's paintings and photographs reflected her deep love of wildlife, flowers, and the outdoors. She poured her heart into every piece she made, and even into her yard-slowly expanding it, one rake-full at a time, into a space that welcomed all.

For 21 winters, Jo and Frank made their way to Quartzsite, Arizona, where music filled their days. Playing and singing at jams, they made friends who became like family. Whether in Minnesota or Arizona, Jo's warmth and creativity drew people to her.

Above all, Jo loved her family. She was a fun-loving mom, grandma, and great-grandma who lit up at the chance to spend time with them. From family gatherings to quiet moments, she made everyone feel special and cherished.

She will be deeply missed by her husband of 44 years, Frank Thompson; daughter Brenda (Jeff) Anderson of Cavalier, ND; son Barry (Cindy) Bartholomay of Agoura Hills, CA; stepsons Darren (Jean) Thompson and Kelly Thompson of Grand Forks, ND; grandchildren Jason Anderson, Lindsay (Casey Olmstead) Anderson, Adam Bartholomay, Kristin Bartholomay, Zach Bartholomay, Nick (Paige Solheim) Thompson, Navy Thompson, Fiona (Avery) Peterson, and Beck Thompson; and great-grandchildren Camden Stoltman, Redden Peterson, and Vale Peterson. She is also survived by siblings Arne Bratland, Janet Conley, and Duane (Lila) Bratland.

She was welcomed into heaven by her parents, Arne and Mabel Bratland; her sister and brother-in-law, Micky and Ardelle Hanson; her brother-in-law John Conley; her sister-in-law Marlene Bratland; and her son-in-law Dennis Aubol.

Jo leaves behind a large, loving family including all the Thompsons, many dear friends, and countless people whose lives she touched through her art, music, and generous heart.

Memorial Service: 2:00 PM, Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Augustana Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, ND. A time of fellowship will be held after the service.

Visitation: 1 hour before services at the church.

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