Augustana University Athletics

Thompson, a native of Mitchell, earned four letters each in football (as a guard and tackle) and in basketball (as a guard who consistently drew the opponent's toughest man). During his Augustana career he was named to the conference's all-star team three times in football and once in basketball. He was captain of his football team his senior year and was named Augustana's "Honor Athlete of 1940".

Considered one of the toughest linemen in the league, Thompson played on teams which had a 16-2 mark during his four years here – including two conference championship outfits. No championship was declared in 1940 due to a game being weathered out. The Vikings were also basketball champions in Thompson's freshman year.

Following three years of service with the U.S. Navy, Thompson began his professional career with the Lynwood, Calif., school system which he served for 27 years. He was also assistant superintendent for business services for the system.