The Superior Express -

Arthur (Archie) Leroy Thompson, age 70, died Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023, at Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita, Kansas. He was born to Glen S. and Iris A. (Maley) Thompson on Aug. 2, 1953, in Beloit, Kansas.

Archie married Donna Mallory on Oct. 26, 1973. To this union they were blessed with three sons; Shane, Curtis and Kevin.

After the Dubuque Packing Plant closed in Mankato, Archie started his career on June 24, 1974, at the Randall Farmers Co-Op Union. He started as a feed truck driver and over the next 22 years he learned various other jobs before he became the manager. He managed the co-op from 1996 until he retired in 2016. Archie was grateful to the Randall community for giving him what he felt was a second chance and for spoiling him with his favorite, lemon meringue pie. Archie also helped his brothers-in-law, Donnie and Kenny Mallory, with carpentry work. For several years he served as a first responder and as the fire chief of the Randall Fire Department.

When Archie wasn't working, you could find him tinkering in his garage, spoiling his grandchildren and playing darts or pool with family and friends.

He was known for putting others first. He would often mow others yards, lend someone a tool or just make sure his friends and family knew his door was always open.

Left to remember Archie are his three sons, Shane (Glenda) Thompson of Beloit, and Curtis Thompson and Kevin Thompson both of Jewell; four grandchildren, Heather Thompson, Haley (Jason) Nelson, Tristan Thompson and Jaxson Thompson; two great-granddaughters, Mallory and Grace Nelson; brothers, Allen Thompson, Carl (Carla) Thompson, Terry Thompson and Tracy Crawford; sister, Vola Conard; two sisters-in-law, Dorothy (Jack) Hake and Mary Mallory; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Archie was preceded in death by his wife, Donna; parents, Glen and Iris Thompson; brothers, Robert (Bob), Dale and Billy Thompson; and two sisters, Elsie Crawford and Pearl Tieking.

Visitation was from 1 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2023, with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at Kleppinger Funeral Home, Jewell, Kansas.

His funeral was at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2023, at the Jewell Community Center, with Pastor Dan Daniels officiating.

Burial followed at Wallace Cemetery, Jewell.

A memorial fund has been established in memory of Archie Thompson to be designated at a later date.

For online condolences, please visit kleppingerfuneralhome.com.