Gail Olwell Thompson

Gail and Bjorn "Red" Thompson, a beloved couple whose love story was woven through the fabric of their family and community, have passed away peacefully, just three days apart of each other. Gail O. Thompson, age 88, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025, and Bjorn “Red” Thompson, age 90, joined his wife on Monday, January 27, 2025.

Born in Madison, Bjorn graduated from Madison East High School with the class of 1952. He went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Gail, born with a creative spirit, graduated from Wisconsin High with the class of 1954 and furthered her education at UW-Madison, earning a bachelor’s degree in art history and art education. It was at the university where Bjorn and Gail's paths crossed, leading to a marriage that would become a testament to partnership and mutual support. They were united in marriage on July 27, 1957, at St. Raphael's Cathedral in Madison.
 

Upon graduation, Bjorn joined the US Army for a two-year tour of duty serving with the 91st Engineer Battalion after which, he and Gail returned home to Madison. Bjorn accepted a job as an Industrial Engineer at the Oscar Mayer Madison Plant which initiated a 33-year career marked by dedication and excellence. In recognition of his many achievements and contributions to the company, he was sent to Harvard University, where he earned certification in the Advanced Management Program. Meanwhile, Gail was the cornerstone of their home, ensuring that everything ran smoothly as Bjorn's career flourished. Her role as the family's matriarch was pivotal, providing a nurturing environment that allowed their children and grandchildren to thrive.

Gail's interests were diverse and rich. She had a passion for the arts, which was reflected in her academic pursuits and leisure activities. She enjoyed playing tennis and golfing, activities that she often shared with friends and family. Her love for spending quality time with her loved ones was evident in the warmth and joy that filled their home.

Bjorn's career provided the couple with opportunities to explore the world, traveling extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and Africa. These experiences enriched their lives and broadened their horizons, creating a tapestry of memories that they cherished deeply. Despite their adventures abroad, it was their children and grandchildren who brought them the greatest joy. The couple's love affair was not only evident in their devotion to each other but also in the legacy they built through their family.

Bjorn and Gail are survived by their children, Kai (Ann) Thompson, Kristin (Bill Pearson) Decremer-Pearson and Kirk (Laurie) Thompson; grandchildren, Kevin and Jeffrey Thompson, Kirk (Taylor Rotherham-DeCremer) DeCremer, Katherine (Phan Visutyothapibal) Thompson and Julia Thompson; great-grandchildren, Harrison and Charleston DeCremer; and Bjorn’s sister, Sylvia Graf. They were preceded in death by both of their parents; their son-in-law, Dr. James DeCremer; Gail’s sister, Janet (Eugene) Lippert and Bjorn’s brother-in-law, Truman Graf.

The love story of Gail and Bjorn "Red" Thompson is one that will be remembered by all who knew them. Their unwavering support for each other, their shared passions, and their commitment to their family is their legacy. We celebrate the profound impact they had on their community and the enduring love they shared, which continues to inspire us all.

In keeping with Bjorn and Gail’s wishes, no public event will be held.

Memorials may be made to Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center or American Heart Association.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761