Norman Howard Thompson

Norman Howard Thompson, tribal member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux Tribe of the Lake Traverse Indian Reservation was born on January 5, 1935 in Peever, South Dakota and passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the age of 90. A retired USAF veteran of the Vietnam War, Norman dedicated his life to serving his country and his family.
Norman was predeceased by his mother Ida F. Onihan, father George Thompson, and his beloved wife, Guadalupe O. Thompson, who passed away in 2016. He is survived by his loving children: Debra A. Goodier (Winslow), Norman H. Thompson Jr. (Jenny), Joseph O. Thompson, Alex Sandoval (Helen), and Frank Sandoval (Antonia), along with several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great -grandchildren and countless others who knew and loved Norman as "Grandpa". An amazing testimony of Norman's life given the fact that he was orphaned at the age of seven.
During his later years, Norman often said, "I'm not pushing daisies yet!," a phrase that reflected his resilient spirit and sense of humor.
Norman's legacy is one of honor, dedication, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The interment will be at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made online at https://give.stjo.org/site/Donation2?df_id=1740&1740.donation=form1
Checks payable to St. Joseph's Indian School can be mailed to the following address:
St. Joseph's Indian School
PO Box 100
Chamberlain, SD 57325
1-855-777-3433
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Esther Villarreal and her staff at Loma Park Assisted Living for their compassionate and dedicated care during Norman's final days, allowing him to pass peacefully and with dignity.