Delores Elaine was born August 17, 1932, to Edwin and Lydia (Sorenson) Johnson at their farmstead north of Williston, ND, the oldest of six children. She was confirmed at First Lutheran Church in Williston and graduated with the Williston High School Class of 1951. After graduation, her career goal was to attend hair dressing school after working for a time at the Luzon Café in downtown Williston. She so enjoyed her time waitressing at the Luzon. Over the years, she has always recalled many happy memories of working there, and she made many lasting friendships and acquaintances.

One of those Luzon acquaintances was the young farmer from north of Ray, Norman Thompson. After their many lunch dates at the Luzon, Delores’ plans changed. Norman and Delores were married December 27, 1959, at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Williston. Their candlelight service was complete with Christmas trees, red and green dresses, and cascading poinsettias on her Bible bouquet. For a few years they lived in Williston in the winter months for employment. Mom worked at Model Cleaners. In the farming months, they moved back to the farm.

For the next nearly 63 years, her life revolved around Dad and children Jan Lorraine and Wesley Hilman. Our family grew with the addition of son-in-law, Charles Lloyd and daughter in-law Dawn Marie. When the three grandchildren arrived, she quickly accepted the role of Grandma with energy and love. Tyler Norman, Tanner Wesley, and Lydia Kate Lorraine each had a very special place in her heart.

Throughout Delores’ life, she became a beautiful blend of her parents’ talents and interests. Her father, Edwin, was a skilled wood carver, accordion musician, farmer, and cook—especially making gravy. Her mother, Lydia, was a registered nurse filled with knowledge, compassion, and instinct; Lydia took pride in her vegetable and flower gardens and hosting family holidays with great food and fun.

It makes sense then that Delores will long be remembered for her creativity in embroidery, quilting, and flower gardening—especially petunias. She loved accordion music and waited for the Lawrence Welk Show or Molly B polka time each week. She knew the value of working hard and growing up with little—farming those days was difficult, at best.

Without a doubt, though, Mom’s love language was food! Her family remarks about the numerous meals that she made and served over the years. She was a master baker and gravy maker (yes, she learned that from her dad) and everything in between! Her quiet, yet compelling presence and friendly smile were welcoming to many.

Delores’ priority was her family. Dad always said that the farm would NEVER have been successful without Mom. Her faith along with wise instinct and business acumen were integral to all farm decisions. What a team! They worked side by side, through thick and thin. Mom’s actions defined the word “homemaker” NOT as just a passive occupation; she truly did “make” our “home.

Delores was active in the Rainbow Valley Church and in the Ladies Aid where she held numerous offices over the years. She enjoyed teaching Sunday School and Bible School. She was a member of the Oli-Rain Birthday Club.

Mom and Dad never really “retired” but moved south—you know, into Ray! They enjoyed their many years there with new memories, coffee and conversations with friends—but still close enough to continue to be connected to their beloved farm. She and Norman moved to Arbor House in Williston in October 2022. Norman passed away December 17, 2022.

Delores is survived by her children/grandchildren: Daughter—Jan (Charles) Repnow, Minot, and granddaughter Lydia Repnow, Moorhead, MN; Son—Wesley (Dawn) Thompson, Ray and grandsons Tyler Thompson, Ray and Tanner Thompson, Ray. Sister—Myrtle Erdman, Williston; Brother—Robert Johnson, Madison, SD; Sister-in-law (really like a sister & best friend) Ethel Thompson, Williston; Sister-in-law—Joyce Thompson, Helena, MT. Special Cousin—Duane (Carol) Sorenson, Chippewa Falls, WI; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins.

She was preceded in death by husband Norman (2022); father Edwin (1968); mother Lydia (1999); sister Gladys (2011), sister Evelyn (2011); brother Laurence (1992).

Thank You