Kenneth Andrew Thompson, 64

Kenneth Andrew Thompson, of Kalispell, formerly of Glendive, “went home to be with his Lord Jesus Christ” on May 28, 2017, while at home surrounded by loving family.

Ken was born in Glendive on Oct. 13, 1952, to Clyde and Lorraine (Ostby) Thompson; on a beautiful fall day. He attended both Lincoln and Washington elementary schools and then moved on to Dawson County High School. In this time, he made lifelong friends and many memories.

After high school, Ken enlisted in the Army from November 1970 to September 1973 and served in South Korea.

Ken married the love of his life, Margaret (Rogness) Thompson, in 1974 after only dating for a little over a month. They were married by Maggie’s father, the Rev. Burnis Rogness. The family was a little worried about this hasty marriage; however, at this time they have been happily married for 43 years.

After five years of marriage they welcomed their first child, Leah Kristine. Two and a half years later, they welcomed a son, Samuel Andrew. Their family was complete and they loved every minute of time together.

Ken worked for Halliburton Services in Glendive for 12 years. In 1986, the family left Glendive to move to Washington. While there, Ken was injured in a work accident and medically retired, moving the family to Bozeman. At this time, his new vocation of his favorite career became “Mr. Mom.” This job kept Ken on his toes because the kids were becoming teenagers. Ken made a memorable impression on many of his children’s friends along with some of his daughters boyfriends.

In 2000, Ken welcomed his first granddaughter, Maddy DeShaw, and was wrapped around her finger from the minute she was born and for the following 17 years. Ken taught her to play the guitar, and they saw each other every day. Maddy and her Papa had such a special relationship; he was so proud of her success in music, art and academics.

In 2006 his second granddaughter was born, Bella Hodous. She added more spunk, energy and love to an already thankful Papa. He loved cheering her on at her numerous sporting events and was so proud of her success in athletics and academics.

Ken had many things in life that provided him peace and joy. He was an avid beekeeper and took pride in the honey he produced. He was an amazing musician, playing the guitar and singing at home and at church. He loved hiking and hunting for fossils and interesting rocks, most of them found in Eastern Montana. Each rock/fossil he found came with a story with a meaning behind it. Ken had such strong faith that helped carry him and his family through all the trials of life. He gave money to the homeless, reached out to those who needed help with so much compassion and empathy. He had a unique sense of humor coupled with sarcasm, which made conversations with him highly entertaining. His love for his family was so pure and unconditional — we are all so blessed and thankful to have a man like that in our lives. He loved his long FaceTime calls with his son every night, sometimes talking into the late hours, never running out of things to say. He looked forward to breakfast out with his daughter every Friday, movie nights with Maddy, listening to Bella’s sports play by play and also relaxing on the deck, enjoying the yard with his wife. He also had a very close relationship with his son-in-law, Rob Hodous. Rob cherished the knowledge, guidance, love and support Ken shared with him on a consistent basis.

He was preceded in death by his father Clyde, brother Steve, grandfather Olaf Ostby, and grandmother Marie Ostby.

He is survived by his mother Lorraine Thompson, who was more than just a mother, she was his mentor and best friend. He is also survived sister, Kris Ruddy, of Glendive; and his uncles, Norman (Jane) Ostby of Flatwillow, Montana, David Ostby of Glendive, and Ray Ostby (Natha) of Saratoga, California.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Margaret (Rogness) Thompson; his children Leah Hodous, son-in-law Rob Hodous, and their children Maddy DeShaw,17, and Bella Hodous, 11, all from Kalispell. Ken is also survived by his son, Sam Thompson, of Bozeman.

There are numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family that held a special place in his heart.

Ken will be greatly missed; we will hold him in our hearts and memories forever.

Upon Ken’s request, he has been cremated with no service planned.

Letters of condolence can be sent to Maggie Thompson, 91 Northern Lights Blvd., Kalispell, MT 59901.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for the family.