Emma Thompson

Emma “Jean” Thompson, 84, of Battle Creek passed away peacefully Thursday December 15, 2011 at home surrounded by her family. She was born on December 12, 1927 in Battle Creek to George P. and Helene A. (Gustke) Brenner. Jean graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1945 and later took several classes at K.C.C. She married Donald F. Thompson on April 6, 1947. Jean was a co-owner with her husband Don, of the Green Gardens Fruit Markets, Country Boy Drive-In, Buckingham Inn, and Legion Supper Club. She is survived by her husband Don, their children, Linda (Paul) Weiss, John (Kathy) Thompson, David (Linda) Thompson, all of Battle Creek, Beverly (Michael) Lewis, of Traverse City, special friend, Lynn Beaumont, twelve grandchildren, Kimberly, David (Erica), Chad (Kim), Katelyn, John, Justin, Trent (Ruthie), Trevor, Sarah (Kevin),Heather, Molly, and Rebecca, eight great grandchildren, a brother, Fred (Jo) Brenner, sisters, Jacqueline Brenner, Joyce (Donald) Jaffke, and Janice (Tad) VanderVoort, all of Battle Creek, sisters-in-law, Beryl Brenner, of Shalimar, FL and Carol Brenner, of Battle Creek, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jean was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, George, Robert, Richard, Rodger, and Rodney Brenner, sister, Helen, and sisters-in-law, Barbara, and Lu Brenner.The most important thing in Jean’s life was her family. She was a member of Altrusa, Lutheran Missionary League, and St. Mark Lutheran Church. Jean was a Brownie leader and a Sunday School teacher for several years including teaching disabled children at the former Custer State Home. She was a volunteer at Ann J. Kellogg and various homes for the disabled. Jean enjoyed cooking and baking, especially cookies. The grandchildren called her “cookie grandma”. She also enjoyed playing the piano, Saduko, and crossword games. Family will receive friends on Tuesday December 20, 2011 from 5pm to 7pm at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held 11:00am Wednesday at St. Mark Lutheran Church with Rev. Maurice G. Shackell officiating. In lieu of flowers family requests memorial donations be made to Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice, Haven of Rest, or Doris Klaussen Development Center

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