Leon Ernest Thompson, 82, of rural Austin, died at Prairie Manor Care Center Sunday afternoon, April 24, 2011.

He was born Dec. 30, 1928, to Barlow and Tonnetta “Nettie” (Peterson) Thompson at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin. Baptized and confirmed at Moscow Lutheran Church, rural Austin, Leon attended a one-room country school through eighth-grade before attending and graduating from Austin High School in 1946. He was married to Joyce Lestrud and later divorced. An excellent mechanic, carpenter and electrician, he repaired machinery and always had time to assist anyone who asked for help. He loved being around people and was very proud of his Model T Ford, in which he gave his nieces, nephews and friends rides. Leon was a familiar sight around Moscow with his dogs riding in the front seat of the Model T. He farmed with his brother, Warren, until Warren passed away in 1984. Leon retired from farming and rented out the land. After an unsuccessful hip surgery in July, 1999, he moved to Prairie Manor where he enjoyed the other residents and activities. He had a large video collection, DVDs and two video recorders. He never missed worship at Prairie Manor.

Leon is survived by a sister, Helen Christianson of Blooming Prairie; two nieces, Marlene Johnson of Plymouth, Iowa, Teresa (Harold) Berg of Sandstone; two nephews, Brian (Janice) Christianson of St. Louis, Mo., Paul (Patricia) Christianson of Melbourne, Fla.; special friend, Martha Toher of Prairie Manor, numerous cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Warren and Ray; sister, Beryl; niece, Evelyn Schrage; two brothers-in-law, Evert Gerber and Orville Christianson.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 28, at Prairie Manor Chapel with Pastor Richard Hegal officiating. Interment is at Moscow Lutheran Cemetery, rural Austin. Friends may call from 12 to 1 p.m. at Prairie Manor. Worlein-Blooming Prairie Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.