Ian T. Thompson

Ian Thoburn Thompson was born January 27, 1965, in La Paz, Bolivia, and died on October 23, 2006, at his Albert Lea home. He died of radiation induced cardiovascular and lung disease, 32 years after successful treatment of Hodgkin's disease. Ian was educated in the Albert Lea school system, graduated from Hamline University in 1987, and worked for a migrant agency. Later he studied carpentry at Riverland/Austin and obtained a contractors license. When his body could no longer tolerate heavy work, he returned to Hamline University where he received a graduate certificate in teaching English as a Second Language. For the past six years he was employed in the Albert Lea School District, most recently at Lakeview Elementary School, answering what he considered his 'calling'. Ian traveled throughout Central and South America as a student, as a wanderer, and as a volunteer to work projects in his beloved place of birth, Bolivia. He was there in 2005 to photograph the beautiful faces of children in two orphanages and a community of displaced Guarani. Photography was an enduring passion. His dogs were faithful companions and filled his home with constancy and action. He extended his love of family to a host of friends across many borders and lived a life of exuberance. He shared his time, energy, and resources generously, even to the detriment of his own strength. His carpentry projects grace his home, the family cabin, and the homes of his many friends. Ian's family was blessed by his courage, insights, and strength. He bravely faced many challenges, including two cancers, two heart attacks, and alcohol dependency. He and the family celebrate his 16 years of sobriety. His sisters surrounded him with advice and support in his many journeys. His brothers-in-law were truly brothers, and his nephews and nieces delighted him. Cousins exchanged visits from afar when possible. Marjorie and Thoburn Thompson of Albert Lea are his parents. Sister Catherine James, husband Phil, and children Brian, Matthew, and Amy live in Madison, Wisconsin. Sister Sarah Tonn, husband Marvin, and children Keedy and Hattie live in Oakdale, Minnesota. Sister Susan Helgeson, husband John, and boys Toby John, Samuel Ian, and Michael live in Alexandria, Minnesota. Rute and Jack Helmen of Outing, Minnesota are aunt and uncle, with daughter Nicole Warner living in California. Aunt Thora and Uncle Ed Jervey live in Radford, Virginia; their sons are David, Warren, and Tom. Ian's grandparents, Ralph and Hattie Helmen of Milaca, MN and Evelyn and Joseph Thompson, of Yucaipa, California, and Albert Lea, preceded him in death. Memorials are suggested to Curamericas, Habitat for Humanity, District 241 Education Foundation, or the Albert Lea United Methodist Church, where he was an active member.