With sadness and deep appreciation for a life well lived, we share the passing of Orrel “OT” Thompson, 80, of Prior Lake, Mn. after a brave battle with Parkinsons.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Ballard-Sunder Funeral Home in Prior Lake. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2017 at 11:00 AM with visitation one-hour prior at St. Michael Catholic Church in Prior Lake. Father Tom Walker will preside, and Brent Kirchgasler, Matty Kirchgasler, Dave Kirchgasler, Tom Essen, Roger Ilstrup and Myron Tupa will act as pallbearers. Orrel will be laid to rest at St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery in Prior Lake.
He is survived by his wife, Joan; children, Julie Kirchgasler (Dave), Mike Thompson (Connie), Jenny (Tom) Essen and Matt (Maureen) Thompson; grandchildren, Brent, Matty, Anna, Emily, Kylee, Katie, Brekken; sister, Jaci Applegate; sister-in-law, Barb Mathison and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jim Mathison and favorite dog, Skipper.
He was born in Spring Grove and spent his childhood in southern Minnesota.
Orrel earned a bachelor’s degree from Winona State and received his master’s degree in art education from Mankato State. After a career in teaching, he worked as director of the Rochester (Mn) Art Center, the John Michael Kohler Art Center in Sheboygan, Wis., and the Akron Art Institute in Akron, Ohio. He later served as an associate director of the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, arts director for the Dayton Hudson Foundation, and as a guest lecturer at the University of Minnesota.
After his art career, he launched several retail businesses, including Minneapolis-based Toyworks, American Sampler and Classic Toys. He later started Ancient Traditions, a gallery in downtown Mpls. He was also a consultant for the Canadian Arts Council.
After retirement to Lake Minnewaska in Glenwood, he returned to his love of art; working in many mediums. His work was displayed in galleries and shows throughout the country.
Memorials may be directed to Allina Hospice, Minnesota Parkinsons Association or St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Prior Lake.
