Marvel J. Thompson, 86

Marvel J. Thompson, 86, born and raised in Libby, died July 30, 2021, at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center. Marvel was born to Glen and Eileen Leckrone, Oct. 23, 1934. She graduated from Libby High School in 1952.

Marvel was a cheerleader in high school for the Terriers, who became known as the Libby Loggers in later years. She worked various jobs in her youth, including Miller’s Clothing Store, the county extension agent and First National Bank.

She met the “love of her life,” Fred S. Thompson, while ice-skating on a makeshift ice skating rink next to the Blue Bear Café in Libby. Fred, being from Wisconsin, was mesmerized by her ice skating skills and they began dating.

Fred joined the U.S. Army Signal Corps and hitchhiked home from Las Cruces, N.M., to marry Marvel in 1954. They moved to White Sands Proving Ground in New Mexico, where they lived until he was discharged from the Army in 1955. They immediately returned to Libby as Marvel stated she had been terribly homesick. Marvel remained devoted to her home community throughout her life.

Marvel worked with Fred at the State Farm Insurance office for several years. She and Fred traveled extensively with Rotary International in Europe, Asia and Hawaii as well as across Montana. She entertained friends and family often with stories of their travels. Marvel and Fred were honored as Libby Nordic Fest king and queen in 2005. She served as Nordic Fest Parade Marshal several years later. She was involved in many volunteer organizations benefitting Libby throughout her life.

Marvel was preceded in death by her husband, Fred, in 2011; her two brothers, Darrell Leckrone and Glen Leckrone Jr., both of Libby; and her adopted daughter, Judy Eby, who died in 2004.

She is survived by her son, Scott F. Thompson (Mary Karen) of Libby; her daughter, Julie Ann Rose (Julie Woodley) of Tennessee; and six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren at last count.

Marvel always had a twinkle in her eye and was quick with a joke and a smile. She will be greatly missed.

Arrangements are being handled by Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby. Due to the uptick of COVID-19, her memorial service will be held at a later date.

Marvel was an avid lover of animals and a supporter of KSPS. We ask that a donation to one of those organizations be made in her memory if you so choose.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.