June 9, 1947 – July 21, 2025
Lois Layne Thompson passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, at the Highview Hills Senior Living Community in Lakeville, Minnesota, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was 78 years old.
Born on June 9, 1947, in Forest City, Iowa, Lois was the cherished daughter of Forest and Elinor (Pitkin) Thompson. She graduated from Forest City High School in 1965, marking the beginning of a life filled with remarkable dedication and service.
Following high school, Lois proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army, where she served for three years, stationed at Fort MacArthur in San Pedro, California. During her military tenure, she demonstrated exceptional skill and discipline as a member of the U.S. Army pistol team.
After her military service, Lois settled in Minnesota, where she embarked on a long and successful career in the wire transfer department at U.S. Bank in the Twin Cities. Over her 44 years with the bank, Lois became known for her diligence, professionalism and warm spirit.
Lois’s passions extended beyond her work. She was an avid baker and a talented crocheter, dedicating countless hours to creating hats and blankets for children in need. Her generous heart and gentle nature endeared her to all who knew her. Lois cared deeply for others, demonstrating her compassion through her time, talents and charitable giving to the causes she supported.
Lois is survived by her beloved sister, Priscilla Rietz of Edina, Minnesota, and a host of extended relatives and friends who will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents, Forest and Elinor Thompson; her sister, Sandy Buss; her brother, Forest “Forry” Thompson; her nephew, Alan Thompson; her niece, Teri Lyn Thompson; and her brothers-in-law, Leon Buss and Larry Rietz.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Kellie Simonson of Prior Lake, Minnesota, a cherished niece whose exceptional care and advocacy for Lois went above and beyond. Kellie’s unwavering love, dedication and selflessness were a source of great comfort and strength to Lois throughout her journey. Her kindness and presence brought joy and light to Lois’s life and will always be remembered with profound appreciation.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Schott Funeral Home in Forest City, Iowa. Lois will be laid to rest with full military honors at Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City, next to her beloved mother Elinor and sister Sandy.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Sharing & Caring Hands (www.sharingandcaringhands.org) in Lois’s honor, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping others.
schottfuneralhomes.com.