Lloyd Orville Thompson

Lloyd Orville Thompson, 91, of Fargo, ND, died Monday, May 1, 2017 at Essentia Health.

Lloyd was born June 10, 1925, in Benwood, Minnesota to Oliver and Bertha Thompson. He was the third youngest of ten children, having five sisters and four brothers, all who preceded him in death. Lloyd grew up on the farm his parents homesteaded, and maintained an interest in agriculture his entire life. He attended a one room school house for grades 1-8, and graduated from Badger High School in 1942. He attended Tri State University and graduated with a degree in Engineering and Business.

Lloyd was drafted into the army and served in the 6th Division, 63rd Infantry during WWII. He was stationed in the Philippines. He was wounded and received awards for his service including a Bronze Star medal and Purple Heart, among others.

Lloyd had a great capacity to love others and was first married in April of 1951 to Virginia Jacobson of Finley, ND. They had three children-Brenda, Dan and Nancy. Lloyd and “Jina” were known for their love for each other and their love for family. Nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren all have special memories of their time together. After Jina passed away in 2004, Lloyd met Beverly Woodward to share his love with. They married in June 2009. With Bev came more family and grandchildren. Lloyd and Bev enjoyed their time together traveling and spending time in Fargo, Phoenix and their lake homes near Detroit Lakes, MN.
Family was always a priority for Lloyd and his contact with both his children and extended family was key to his happiness.

Following college, Lloyd began working in the highway construction industry. He started with the North Dakota State Highway Dept., worked for Twin City Testing, and William Collins and Sons, before starting Border States Paving in 1967. Lloyd’s expertise and professionalism grew and he led both nationally and internationally in his field. He became a Life Director of the Association of General Contractors and served as the Chairman of the National Asphalt Paving Association. As part of his national involvement, Lloyd had many opportunities for travel and learning which he enjoyed. He represented the United States in travel through Europe and China reviewing new processes for road construction. He was inducted into the North Dakota Highway Hall of Honor in 1993.

A well-rounded individual, Lloyd was active in the community. His support for NDSU has been well known. He was a member of the Development Foundation of the Board of Trustees and served as Chairman. He was the recipient of the Blue Key Doctor of Service and received an Honorary Doctorate in 1991. Lloyd was also the recipient of the Agrey Award, chosen for achievements in transportation in North Dakota.

Lloyd was a founding and charter member of Hope Lutheran Church. Much of his social life was founded in friendships developed in the congregation. He was dedicated in service and helped lead the building committee to build the current sanctuary at Hope North as well as several additions. He shared his faith in God with many and was the eternal optimist in his interactions with everyone he met.

Lloyd affected the lives of many people by his generosity, his care and kindness to all. His many friends were all very special to him and were treated as family. With his tall presence, unmistakable laugh, big hands and loving eyes he made everyone feel welcome and loved.

Survivors include his wife, Beverly of Fargo; daughter, Brenda (Steve) Shepard of Aurora, CO; son, Dan(Genevieve) Thompson of Fargo, and daughter, Nancy Slotten of Fargo; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. His extended family includes daughters, Cindy (Jon) Bonzer of Grand Forks, ND; Marsha (Brian) Johansen of Fargo, and son, David (Sarah) Woodward of Savage, MN; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Suggested memorials include Hope Lutheran Foundation, NDSU Development Foundation, ND AGC Education Foundation or charity of your choice in lieu of flowers.