George Ellis Thompson

George Ellis Thompson “Magianuquad” (moving cloud), 80, of Onigum, Minn., died Monday, May 23, 2011, at Neilson Place in Bemidji.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 28, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Onigum with the Rev. Harold Eaglebull officiating. Burial will be in St. John’s Episcopal Cemetery. The wake will begin at 5 p.m. today, Thursday, May 26, at the Onigum Community Center and continue until time of service. The Dennis Funeral Home of Walker assisted the family in making service arrangements.

He was born May 25, 1930, to Henry H. and Mary Louise (Ellis) Thompson in Onigum. He grew up in Onigum and attended school in Onigum and Walker. Following his schooling, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. After being honorably discharged from his military service, he lived in Minneapolis prior to moving back home to Onigum where he has lived since. He was known as the “Mayor” of Onigum and was actively involved at St. John’s Episcopal Church serving on the Bishop’s Committee. He was also active in the community and enjoyed writing, and sharing “Onigum News” for the newspaper. He looked forward to the Elders Outings, attending Onigum powwows, and trips to the casino. Playing bingo, watching baseball and netting were also some of his favorite pastimes. His grandchildren brought a special twinkle to his eye. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his ability to tease and his big bear hugs.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary LaDeaux; six grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandsons; sister, Bernadine (Alfred) Fox; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son; and four brothers, Theodore Thompson, Floyd Thompson, Melvin Thompson and Leo Jordan.

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