Harald Thompson

Harald Thompson was a beloved grandfather, father, and husband during his incredible 96 years of life. He passed away peacefully on the morning of Wednesday, April 24th at Poplar Meadows. 

Harald had a long and full life. He was born on March 19, 1928, in McIntosh, MN, to loving parents, Theodore and Rosetta Thompson. Harald had two older siblings, Gordon and Martha, and he graduated from McIntosh High School in 1946. 

Harald's spirit of adventure led him to the Navy right after high school, where he traveled to exotic destinations such as Gibraltar, Trieste, Italy, North Africa, and Morocco. While serving, Harald discovered his passion for journalism and photography, chronicling navy life and ensuring the stories of his crew reached their hometown newspapers through his articles. 

Returning home after an honorable discharge, Harald briefly attended Concordia College before dedicating himself to the family business at Abrahamson Hardware, a staple in the McIntosh community for over 75 years. 

Harald met his future wife, Adella Sylvester, while delivering supplies to the school where Adella taught. It was love at first sight and they got married shortly after on July 23, 1952 in Eldred. They began their life together in McIntosh and started their family in 1954. They were blessed with four children: Ann, Naomi, Ruth, and Mark. Of all the memories the Thompson family has together, the fondest include the 1948 Ford school bus Harald bought for $100, converted into a camper, and used to take his family on weekend bus adventures. 

Harald always placed great importance on community involvement and service. He actively participated in the volunteer fire department, serving as Fire Chief for a number of years. His commitment extended to the local School Board and Our Saviors Church, where he held numerous roles over the years. Harald was a regular at the ‘Coffee Club,’ enjoying the chance to socialize, play dice, and catch up with friends. As the longtime owner and operator of Abrahamson Hardware, he was known for his fairness, kindness, and leadership, building many lasting relationships with both customers and employees. 

In 1993, Harald and Adella were ready to enjoy retirement. They sold the hardware business, purchased a new pickup and a fifth wheel camper, and embarked on life as snowbirds. Their winters were spent exploring various retirement communities in South Texas, taking excursions to Mexico, and enjoying the company of friends. Harald and Adella were also avid travelers, with memorable trips to places like Hawaii and Norway—a country that held a dear place in their hearts. One of their later significant vacations was a trip to New York City with their three daughters in 2005; and no, the bus was not involved! 

In 2003, Harald and Adella chose to simplify their living situation by moving to an apartment in Poplar Meadows. Harald found pleasure in hobbies such as tinkering in his garage, raising pet chickens, fishing, golfing, and gardening with Adella. He was consistent in attending his Thursday pinochle games and cherished his coffee times with neighbors. Harald's role as 'Grandpa Harry' was perhaps his most treasured, delighting in the visits from his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and even at 96 years old, recognizing each one with joy and pride. 

Harald is survived by three children: Ann (Bob) Vesledahl, Erskine, MN; Naomi (Dennis) Hillgartner, Cedarburg, WI; Ruth (Wes) Vetter, Cherokee, IA; daughter-in-law, Karen (Mark) Thompson, McIntosh, MN; 10 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and Adella’s brother, Charles Sylvester of Fisher, MN and sister-in-law, LaMae Sylvester of Fargo, ND; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Adella Thompson; son, Mark Thompson; parents, Theodore and Rosetta Thompson; brother, Gordon Thompson (and his wife Mary); sister, Martha Nelson (and her husband Orville); Adella’s brother, Russell Sylvester and her sister-in-law, Audrey Sylvester.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to The ALS Association, a cause close to Harald's heart after losing his son, Mark, in 2022.

The celebration of life for Harald Thompson will be held on Sunday, April 28th at 3:00pm at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, McIntosh, MN with visitation one hour prior to the service. Military honors will be provided by the Naval Honors Team.

Burial will take place at Our Savior's Lutheran Cemetery, McIntosh, MN. 

Harald's story is one of a journey well-traveled and a life well-lived. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.