It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James Kirker “Jim” Thomson at the Olds Hospital on October 11, 2025, at the age of 82.

Jim was born on June 1, 1943, in Olds, Alberta. In his early years, the family moved to Acme (then east of Olds), then to the Waterside area west of Olds. They finally settled in the Hainstock District in 1957, a place that would forever feel like home. A proud graduate of the Olds School of Agriculture (now Olds College) in 1962, Jim went on to further his education at both the University of Calgary and the University of Alberta (Edmonton), deepening his knowledge and passion for agriculture.

On August 27, 1966, Jim married the love of his life, Merlene Neudorf. That same year, he began his career in the animal feed industry, first with Crown Feed in Calgary and later with Co-op in Drumheller. When land became available near his father’s farm in 1969, Jim and Merlene returned to Olds to put down roots and build their own farming legacy. In those early years, Jim also worked with United Feeds as he grew his own operation. At his peak, he managed 180 head of cattle, 100 sows, and 1,140 acres of land, a testament to his hard work, dedication, and love for the land. When he retired in 2007, it marked not just his 38th harvest but the closing of a remarkable chapter in a life devoted to farming, family, and community.

Throughout his life, Jim gave deeply of his time and energy. He served on many boards over the years, including the Hainstock Community Hall, Hainstock Cemetery, UFA Advisory Board, Wheat Pool Advisory Board, and the Alberta Pork Producer Marketing Board, where he completed a three-year term as delegate. He also served nine years on the Olds Seed Plant board, three of those as chairman. In addition, Jim dedicated more than 22 years of volunteer service to the Olds Food Bank, a cause near and dear to his heart.

Jim was a man of few words but deep convictions. Farming was not just his livelihood but his calling, and he took immense pride in his roots. He championed the agricultural industry with quiet determination. He gave freely of his time and resources, supporting the causes and people that mattered most. Whether volunteering at the food bank, curling with friends, playing a lively game of Uno with family, or staying up late for a poker game, Jim’s warmth, thoughtfulness, and dry sense of humour left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Above all else, Jim valued his family. He worked tirelessly to provide for, guide, and be there for those he loved. His legacy is one of compassion, integrity, and dedication. We were privileged to call him Pappy, Grandpa, brother, friend. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife, Merlene Virginia Thomson (2002); his son, Jason Dean Thomson (1987); his granddaughter, Melissa Miracle Thomson (1998); his sisters, Dian Layton (2019) and Mary Deisman (2021); his nephew, Daniel Corrie (2014); and his parents, Wylie (2008) and Helen (2000) Thomson.

He is survived by his sons, Brad (Jodi) Thomson and Jeff (Jess) Thomson, and his cherished grandsons, Zach, Josh, and Ethan. Jim is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Florence Thomson; his brother, Brian (Connie) Thomson; and numerous extended family members and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation or memorial tribute in Jim’s honour to the Olds Hospital and Care Centre or the Olds Food Bank, and continue the community spirit he so strongly believed in.

There will be a memorial service at the Olds Royal Canadian Legion on October 28, 2025, at 2:00 pm.

Take care, Pappy — we’ll miss you.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 5226 – 46 Street, Olds, Alberta. Phone: 403.507.8610

• Date : 2025-10-26
• Location : (Olds) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com