Obituary of Alma Geraldine Thompson

Alma was born in Gadsby, Alberta. She was the first child born to Bill and Nellie Erichson. They lived and farmed just one mile South of Gadsby. Soon the family was joined by her brothers Bill and Ray Erichson. Alma enjoyed the farm and helped with gardening, cooking and other farm chores. The children walked to Gadsby for school. Alma excelled in track and field in athletics as well as singing. She made some special lasting friendships in her school years. Her family had their own curling team in Gadsby. After high school, Alma went to work at the Gadsby store. Soon after she was introduced to Dr. Grant Thompson, who had moved to Stettler to start his first Chiropractic practice. On July 20, 1951, Alma and Grant were married on the family farm. They moved to Stettler where Alma has spent the rest of her life. Alma was an active member in her church. She loved children and was a preschool Sunday School teacher for many years. Grant introduced Alma to camping, fishing and wild berry picking, often in the foothills of Alberta. One of her favorite activities was their annual fall cranberry/blueberry picking trip out West. Grant and Alma were able to complete this every year of their 53 years of marriage! Grant and Alma started their family with the birth of their son Keith Thompson, in April of 1955. Their daughter, June was born in November 1957. Alma was a very dedicated and loving mother and grandmother, and friend right up until her passing. She supported all our endeavors and was our greatest cheerleader. She welcomed many of our friends into our home and always made great treats for us. We have memories as children visiting our grandparents and getting together with cousins often. We camped and hiked in summer and spent holidays building a cabin on the Clearwater River. Often, New Years was celebrated at the little cabin in the woods without electricity or plumbing. Once Keith and June had gone to college, Grant and Alma were able to enjoy a number of road trips throughout Canada and the USA with friends. When Grant retired from his profession, Grant and Alma took up tree farming on Grant’s family farm near Spruce View. They spent summer months camping in a holiday trailer, working hard caring for the trees and garden there. When Grant’s eyes failed, Alma became the driver to and from the tree farm. Keith and June were both married in 1982. Alma was later there to welcome and help out with the arrival of each of her five grandchildren. Alma’s husband Grant passed away at home on Christmas Eve, 2004. This was difficult for Alma but her strong faith in God and His plan for her life helped her to carry on and bless others. She was able to share in the weddings of all four of her married grandchildren and welcomed their spouses as her new grandchildren. Soon the great-grandchildren arrived, and she loved all eight of them, remembering every birthday. Her newest great-granddaughters were born just last fall. Alma was delighted when the youngest was given the name Alma. In December of 2017, with Alma’s health declining, she was no longer able to care for herself in her own home. This was hard for her to accept but it was her decision to stay in Stettler and move to a Seniors Home where she could get the care she required. In May 2018, Alma was able to set up her new home at Point’s West Living. It was a difficult transition at first, but Alma grew to enjoy her new home and the activities there. She truly appreciated the staff and her caregivers who have become her friends. Alma had a positive attitude and a generous heart. She rarely complained and sincerely cared for everyone in her life. In February of last year, Alma was happy to celebrate her 90th birthday with family and friends. Alma was visiting all her family over Christmas at the home of her daughter, June (and Mark) Dyck near Parson, B.C. Alma suddenly passed away on January 4, 2020; the day that she had planned to return to Stettler. We, her family are so thankful to have had Alma in our lives. We will remember our Mom and Grandmother by her loving and giving spirit. To the end of her life she was always thinking of and giving to others. We will miss her love. . . .Until we meet again . . . Alma was predeceased by: her parents, Nellie and Bill Erichson; her husband, Grant Thompson; her brothers, Ray Erichson and Bill Erichson. Alma is survived by: her son Keith Thompson Red Deer, AB.; her daughter June (Mark) Dyck Parson, B.C.; sisters-in-law Eileen Erichson N. Vancouver, B.C. and Annice Erichson Red Deer, AB.; grandchildren: Malcolm (Carrie) Dyck Airdrie, AB., Natalie (Jared) Klumpp Airdrie, AB., Lisa (Juan) Warkentin Sexsmith, AB., Kristen (Darcy) Vandekraats Parson, B.C., Aurelea Dyck Calgary, AB., great grandchildren: Grant Dyck, Laurelin Dyck, Dawson Dyck, Riley Klumpp, Oliver Klumpp, Colby Dyck, Aravis Dyck and Alma Klumpp (all from Airdrie); numerous nieces and nephews. Alma’s family would like to express our sincere thanks to the staff at Points West Living, especially to her care givers, whom she appreciated so much. Special thanks also to all who were able to call on her or visit her there. A Memorial Service will be held for Alma at the Stettler Funeral Home on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. Donations in Alma’s memory are gratefully accepted to Gideons International or a charity of choice