Norman Thompson

Norman Leo Thompson, 80, Lamar, Missouri passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at the St. Johns Regional Medical Center in Joplin, MO. Norman was born April 20, 1928 in Springfield, MO to Orin V. and Lottie (Doren) Thompson. He graduated high school in Ozark, MO. Norman attended Drury and SMS College in Springfield, Mo and the Old Kansas City College of Mortuary Science graduating in 1950. On March 11, 1951 he married Lottie Loeta Tullis at the Fist Christian Church in Jasper, MO. While Loeta waited at home Norman served in the Army from April 6, 1951 to April 5, 1963. He was a Corporal for the 101st Airborne Division and the 3rd Armed Division. After returning he and his bride made their home in Lamar. He came to work for Carl Konantz and continued to be the only constant in a succession of 6 owners. Norman remained faithful and committed to the needs of the people of Barton County for the rest of his life. He was a member of the Lamar Masonic Lodge No. 292 A.F. & A.M. serving as past master and treasurer for over 17 years, Past High Priest of Lamar Royal Arch Mason #209 American Legion, Treasurer of Barton County Veterans Museum, The Chat & Chew Club, and was a volunteer of the Senior Citizen Meals on Wheels and a member of the First Christian Church in Lamar, Missouri. Survivors include his wife, Loeta of the home, one son, Phillip and his wife Kim of Dublin, California, one daughter, Jan and Phillip Hofschulte of Wyandotte, Oklahoma, and Nick and fiance, Kayla and one great granddaughter Kinley Marie Hofsculte of Stillwater, Oklahoma; two sisters, Thelma Friebe of Ozark, MO and Louella Wilson of North Carolina; three brother-in-laws, Bill, Charlie and Jim Tullis. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brother-in-laws. Norman leaves a host of friends and countless acquaintances whose lives he touched in his professional and community service. He was compassionate, humble, honest and tireless in his service as a funeral director. He was a good husband, dad, grandfather, friend and coffee drinker. Most of all in his service to his fellow man he was servant to God and was faithful to his Savior, Lord and King, Jesus Christ. Well done Norman!