Iona Jean Thompson

Iona Jean Thompson, 75, of Grand Forks, ND and formerly of Walhalla, ND died Wednesday, July 20, 2011 in Woodside Village, Grand Forks. Iona Jean Thompson was born on October 8, 1935 to parents Archie and Sarah Ann (Armstrong) Blaisdell in Walhalla, ND. Iona graduated from Walhalla High School. She worked at the Pembilier Nursing Center for 35 years. She worked as a Certified Nurse's Aide, dictated medical records as well as earning many educational certificates, including a physical therapy certificate from the University of North Dakota as well as certification from Minot State University. Iona was united in marriage to Kenneth Thompson in 1953. Iona was a member of Walhalla Eastern Star and the Pembilier Blue Bell 4H Club. She was also a member of the Walhalla Presbyterian Church. Iona enjoyed crocheting, reading, playing Bingo, and working on the computer and Face book. Iona is survived by her six children: Kathy (Jack) Beeman of Elwood, IN; Daryl (Kelley) Thompson, Cavalier, ND Jeryl "Murph" (Patti) Thompson, Drayton, ND; Ilia (Jay) Haugland, Grafton, ND; Kelly (Sheila) Thompson, Oslo,MN; and Tamala Thompson, Willmar, MN; 13 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Iona was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Kenneth; sister Olivette Blaisdell and brothers Lyle, Nathan, and Glenn Blaisdell. A memorial service will be Sunday, July 24, 2011 at 5:30 PM in Amundson Funeral Home, 2975 South 42nd St., Grand Forks. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the funeral home. Interment will be at the Hillside Cemetery in Walhalla, ND at a later date.