Vera M. Thompson

Vera M. (Ross) Thompson of Mankato, Kansas, was one of 8 children born to Gustav Adolph and Atta Elnora (Quick) Ross on August 19, 1914, on a farm in Jewell County, Kansas. She died at the Jewell County Hospital Long term Care, at the age of 101 years, 7 months, and 7 days.

Vera was united in marriage to Herald Thompson, on December 18, 1932. To this union four children were born – Frances, Pauline, Kathleen, and Richard.

Vera was preceded in death by her parents – Gustav and Elnora Ross; husband – Herald “Harry” Thompson; daughter – Frances; grandson – Harlen Nobel; sisters – Wilma Terrill and Ella Olena; brothers – Don Ross and Carl Ross.

Survivors include children – Pauline and husband, Ken Robinson, Kathleen and husband – Mike Bryan, Richard (Butch) and wife, Betty Thompson; 8 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; sister – Letha and husband, Don Essinger; brothers – Raymond Ross and George, and wife, Linda Ross; a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Vera was a hard worker helping on the family farm before and after she was married. She was Dr. Schlotterback’s receptionist for several years until she retired. After Herald died she took care of herself and lived alone until she was 100 years of age. She enjoyed years of quilting, playing cards, bowling, going on casino bus trips and doing crossword puzzles. During her 101 years, she had seen many changes from horse and buggy thru automobiles and jet planes. She had lived thru several wars. Vera took many plane rides and got to enjoy two cruises with her 11 family members; to Alaska when she was 91 years and then the Panama Canal cruise. She had great love for her family. Vera enjoyed attending activities of kids and grandkids. She was the happiest when she was surrounded by family, cooking and visiting.

A celebration of life service for Vera M. Thompson, will be (was) Friday, April 1, 2016, at 10:30 a.m., at the Harmony United Methodist Church, Mankato, Kansas, with Pastor Jerry Sharp and Pastor Letha Essinger (sister of Vera) officiating. Mrs. Pat Grout served as organist. The congregation will sing (sang) “In the Garden.” Casket bearers will be (were): Arlan Reed, Don Tegethoff, Dave Bryan, Bruce Bryan, Tate Kerst, and Richard Thompson. Honorary casket bearers will be (were): Aric Reed, Corey Tegethoff, Jeff Claycamp, Derrick Richling, Josh Richard, and Ryan Robinson. Interment will be (was) in the Mount Hope Cemetery, Mankato, Kansas, on the family plot. The family suggests memorials to: Jewell County Hospital. Visitation will be (was) Thursday, March 31, 2016, at the Melby Mortuary, Mankato, Kansas, from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with the family receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Online condolences can be left at www.melbymortuary.com. Melby Mortuary, Mankato, Kansas, was in charge of service arrangements.