Russell "Chris" Thompson

  Russell Christian (Chris) Thompson, 76, of Grand Forks, passed away on Monday, February 1, 2016 at Sheyenne Care Center, Valley City, ND. Chris was born on March 25, 1939 to Russell H. and Valborg "Vee" (Johnson) Thompson in Grand Forks, where he spent his childhood.  The family moved to Long Beach, California where he attended schools and graduated from high school in 1957.  Upon returning to Grand Forks, he attended the University of North Dakota where he was a member of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. Following college, Chris served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Texas, before returning to Grand Forks where he was employed with Grand Forks Glass and Paint Company as a skilled craftsman for over 40 years. He was an excellent fisherman, and honed his skills during numerous memorable fishing trips into Canada and the Minnesota lakes.  He had a passion for old and antique cars, and knew every make and model there was in great detail. He enjoyed shaking dice, making his world-famous lefse for anyone that asked, and cooking and hosting neighbors, family, and friends at dinners and barbecues in Grand Forks and at Maple Lake.  Chris had a perpetual smile on his face and was known for his kindness and generosity for everyone with whom he came into contact. Chris is survived by his nephew, David (Jean) Bina and family of Comstock Park, Michigan; an aunt, Evangeline Barquin of Tampa, Florida; and many cherished cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Jean Bina.  Rest in peace, Chris.  We'll all miss you.   A memorial service will be held 11:00 AM Monday, February 8, 2016 at Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the funeral home. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion, The Veterans of Foreign Wars and the North Dakota Army National Guard Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery of Grand Forks in the spring.