Iola M. Thompson, age 93 of Monroe Wis, formerly of Argyle, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2020, at Pleasant View Nursing Home in Monroe. She was born May 13, 1926 in Green County, WI, the daughter of Israel and Katherine (Fischer) Nall. Iola grew up on the family farm, at a time when much work was still done by real horse power. They had a buggy horse named Birdie that Iola would hitch up for trips into town. Iola graduated from Argyle High School in 1943, and later went on to get her teaching degree from Green County Normal. She began teaching in 1944 at Puddle Dock School just up the road from the family farm, teaching there for 8 years. She later taught at Porter Rural School, South Wayne, from 1958 to 1960. She began teaching at Argyle Public Schools beginning with 3rd grade from 1965 - 1971, and grades 5 & 6, from 1971 until her retirement in 1988. She attended UW Platteville Summer School & Night Classes to finish her B.S. Degree in Elementary Education in 1971. She was united in marriage to Donald E. Thompson April 5, 1947.
Iola is survived by her children: Nicki Thompson of Manitowoc, WI, David Thompson and Jon Thompson both of Argyle, and Kristi Thompson of New Glarus, WI.; Her grandchildren: Kevin (Anissa) Tollakson, Kent (Karalee) Tollakson, Shanna Thompson and Trevor (Meredith) Thompson, Brittany (Chuck) Meoska, Brooke (Justin) Paulson; seven great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; one brother Norman (Edie) Nall of Monroe, WI; one sister, Ruth Mellenberger, of Darlington, WI. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Donald (Sonny) in 2001; two brothers; Bob Nall and John Nall; and one sister; Marian Herman.
She was an excellent teacher. She could be strict, but former students would tell family members how much they liked her as a teacher. It was not unusual for those who entered the military after graduation, to stop at the school for a visit while home on leave. After she retired others would stop at her house for a visit.
Iola was an 70 year member of the Argyle American Legion Auxiliary. She was an excellent cook, you couldn't find better. Well known for her ability to put together big holiday meals, complete with many Norwegian treats, her lefse being a favorite. Iola cherished her family, especially her grandchildren. One of her favorite pastimes in retirement (will be no shock to many) was driving. She will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her family and friends, and two very special friends; Teresa and Kathy.
A private family funeral service is planned for a later date. The Erickson Funeral Home in Argyle is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com
For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been set up in Iola's name for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
