Marilyn E. Thompson

COTTAGE GROVE-Marilyn E. “Mitzi” Thompson, age 82, of Cottage Grove, passed away on Sunday, March 11, 2018, at her home surrounded by family.  She was born on July 8, 1935, in Anamoose, N.D., the daughter of Ernest and Esther (Mantz) Waydeman.  Mitzi’s determination to fight to live each day the past five years is testament to who she was as a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandmother.  She is most remembered for always considering the well-being of others before herself.  This was evident even in her final two days of struggle when she noticed her daughter-in-law, Terri in pain from her back and addressed her concern that Terri was not caring for herself.  As a wife to Bob for over 59 years their love for each other continually grew.  They shared many memories together as a couple celebrating their 25th anniversary with a three week trip to Europe, many vacation destinations throughout the country, and their true passion together was attending their favorite Broadway shows for many years in New York City.  Even the times relaxing on the deck on Saturday afternoons with their dog were cherished moments they valued together.  As a mother to her sons, Jeff and Keith, she found the greatest joy nurturing and loving them and giving them her unrelenting attention.  Even though Jeff and Keith gave her plenty of stress, worries, and challenges she always gave them the freedom and independence to be who they wanted to be with little interference.  Her greatest gift was providing happiness to her boys.  Mitzi had three more reasons that made her life complete, her precious granddaughters, Aislinn, Alexandra, and Sophia.  Being the grandmother to her beautiful granddaughters and spending time with them meant everything to her.  And even though it became more difficult for her and grandpa, they did everything they could to attend each girl’s activities and important events.  Aislinn, Alex, and Sophia will always treasure the memories with grandma.  Mitzi’s love for her sister, Ilo (Bruce) and her family showed in how much she cared for her niece, Mary and nephews, Bruce and Kent, and their spouses, children, and grandchildren.  Mitzi will be remembered as a strong, caring, kind, generous, devoted person who had a beautiful heart.  She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Ilo (Bruce) Leiseth.  Memorial services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 17, 2018, with the Rev. Jeff Vanden Heuvel presiding. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to SSM Home Health Hospice.  A special thank you to the staff of SSM Home Health Hospice, especially Dawn, Tina, Rachel and Sheri, Dr. James Heun, Dr. Michelle Mackay and Dr. Stuart Turner for all of their wonderful care and support over the years.  Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Dr. (608) 221-5420