Barbara Pauline Thompson's Obituary
Barbara Pauline Thompson passed from this life Saturday January 7, 2017 at Parkview Health Center in Oshkosh. Barbara was born to Frank and Zelma (Pistohl) Kempinger on May 30, 1927, she was the oldest of three. Barb is a lifelong member of St. Vincent and later St. Jude Parish.
Barb had an adventurous spirit, moving right out of high school to Chicago she wanted to see the world. She described the job she did as simply filing papers and busy work, but was pioneering IBM. After she had had her fun, and found cockroaches in their cereal box, she decided to head home to Oshkosh, where Barb married the love of her life, Kenneth Roger Thompson at St. Vincent on June 17, 1950.
There was only one way to truly describe the relationship Barb and Ken had: they were soul mates. They were selfless, devoting their lives and resources to their faith, their family and their community. They improved and brightened the life of everyone they touched. They spent many a summer surrounded by children and grandchildren at their cottage on Lake Butte Des Morts, where they spent every evening side by side watching the sunset together.
Barb was at heart, a woman of service, she was filled with pure love for others, and served in varied capacities including President of Christian Women, den mother, Blue Bird and Camp Fire leader and school volunteer. In her roles as wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother she exemplified love and grace, she was the center of the family, and a cheerful and wise matriarch. She faithfully cared for Ken before his passing.
Barb loved her family more than anything and had imparted so much wisdom on them in the latter half of her life. She taught the importance of handwritten notes, she had the most thoughtful words and beautiful handwriting. She was an example of pure selflessness. She taught by example that it is always important to be kind and gentle to the people who we love and have loved. She always taught to carry on strong, but to not be afraid to feel along the way.
Barbara is survived by her brother James (Sharon) Kempinger, her two children, Joe (Cindy) Thompson and Rose Ann Boushele, five grandchildren, Meta (Chris) Johnson, Amanda Boushele, Andy (Paige) Thompson, Ian Thompson and Emma Thompson, and one great grandchild, Lydia Thompson and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Barb is preceded in death by her husband and soul mate Kenneth Roger Thompson, and her brother, John (Jean) Kempinger.
Services will be held at St. Jude’s Parish 216 W South Park Ave in Oshkosh on Saturday January 14. Friends may call between 9:00 and 11:00 with a mass to follow.
In lieu of flowers Barb asked that donations be made to St. Jude’s Good Samaritan Fund. Donations can be sent to St. Jude’s Parish Office at 1025 W. 5th Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54902.
The family is thankful for the love and support provided her caregivers at Parkview. We would also like to thank Father Bill and Father Matt for all their support.
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