Leland "Lee" Thomson
June 29, 2023
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Service Details
Dr. Leland “Lee” Arnold Thomson, 93, passed away June 29, 2023 at Walnut Ridge Care Center in Clive, Iowa.
Lee was born August 16, 1929 to Richard and Anne (Williams) Thomson in Stanwood, Iowa. He received his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from the University of Northern Iowa and his Doctorate from the University of Denver. He was a teacher and administrator in Montezuma, IA, and a professor and Director of Planning and Facilities at UNI. He was a veteran of the United States Army.
He was active in the El Kaher Shrine, Masons, VFW, US Bank, the National Cattle Congress and New Horizons Band.
He is survived by his daughter, Margaret Thomson, West Des Moines, IA; his sister, Shirley Ehlers, Tipton, IA; sisters-in-law, Joann Thomson, Newhall, IA, and Alice Huffman, Bloomfield, IA; and nephew and many nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Virginia (Jordan) Thomson and Lavon (Davis) Thomson; and his brothers, Roland and Gary Thomson.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 7, 2023 at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1025 28th Street in West Des Moines with visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Shriners Children’s Hospital and online condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
The family would like to thank the caretakers at Walnut Ridge Care Center and Suncrest Hospice for the loving care that Lee received.
Tom Damgaard and family
07/10/2023
We are so very sorry to hear of Dr. Thomson's passing. He was always so very kind to me and my family. I was an employee of Cedar Falls Trust & Savings Bank,, Banks of Iowa, Firstar and US Bank for over 30 years. He was always very encouraging and helpful with great ideas & suggestions. He was very approachable and I loved visiting with him. There is no doubt in my mind that HE and other Board Members were instrumental in my continued employment when so many others were severed during the many bank changeovers. Thanks to Lee I was able to retire from US Bank and I am very thankful for that. I am grateful and honored that I knew him! Our prayers are with you.
Thomas Damgaard and family
Retired VP US Bank
Steve Querrey
07/06/2023
Margaret, so very sorry to learn of the loss of your father. I was fortunate enough to get a chance to visit with him a few times and I really enjoyed our conversations.
Bruce Braley
07/06/2023
Margaret and family: Lee was a wonderful human being and made a big impact on my life. I loved the way he made my Dad laugh when he was together with Lyle and Byard. After my Dad died, Lee was always there for me and I cherish memories of the times I spent with him as an adult. We all hope that our time on earth makes an impact on the lives of the people we encounter. Lee had a huge impact on many lives and will always live on in my heart. Wish I could be there to help you celebrate his life.
Dianne Cheeseman
07/03/2023
Margaret - I was so sad to hear about your Dad. He was a wonderful friend, great storyteller, sincere listener, and proud Papa. I like to think hes with your Mom now - happy again. Dianne
Brian Whannel
07/03/2023
Doc was a member of the Shrine Oriental Band when I joined several years ago. Such a wonderful man, Doc told me many stories of Shrine from long ago, of the people and places hed been. A suburb conversationalist who I admired greatly. Doc, you will be missed by your Brothers. God bless you Sir.
Judith Harrington
07/03/2023
Dear Margaret, I knew your dad for many years at UNI and afterward while he remained in Cedar Falls. Such a gentleman, always cheerful in our conversations, and I can still hear his voice mentioning "my daughter Margaret"! He was so proud of you! Lee was highly regarded on campus and received emeritus honors upon his retirement. My deep sympathy to you and your family, Judith Harrington
Cathy Howland
07/02/2023
I met Lee when my husband joined the New Horizons band at UNI. He was so helpful and friendly and aided my husband in adjusting to life with a child in college. When my husband entered hospice, Lee was a steadfast friend and visited regularly. I will cherish his friendship forever. Im sorry for your loss.
Barb Bowers Enderson
06/30/2023
Beginning in first grade Lee was my personal protector, mentor and dear friend. He championed excellence in education, worked tirelessly toward that goal and appreciated then congratulated a job well done. His pride in and devotion to Margaret Ann were unceasing. His big smile and hearty laugh will always remain with me.
Sally Lofgreen Sampson
06/30/2023
Lee was a lifetime educator who touched so many lives in a positive way - students and teachers and staffs. He was a kind man and shared his joy in life with all he met. The world was a better place with Lee around. RIP Mr. Thomson