Mark Wayne Thompson

May 28, 1941 – 

July 15, 2025

 Mark Wayne Thompson passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, at his home in Weiser, Idaho. He was 84.

 Mark was born on May 28, 1941, in Scotia, Calif., to Alfred Marshall and Virginia Cloe Thompson. He grew up with his brother, Jim Thompson, and sister, Donna Howell. In his early years, the family moved throughout Oregon, following his father’s work in the logging industry.

 Mark graduated from Gem State Academy in Caldwell, Idaho, and went on to attend Boise Junior College. He briefly explored barbering at Barber College before deciding to join the U.S. Army in 1963 – his dream: to ski in Europe. That dream came true when he was stationed in Augsburg, Germany, and assigned the role of Director for the American Youth Activities program. This unique position allowed him to travel extensively and ski the breathtaking mountains of Germany and Switzerland.

 While in Germany, Mark met the love of his life, Mary Frances, who worked as a secretary at American Youth Activities. They were married in 1967 in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and went on to raise two children, Natalie and Scott.

 Mark lived a bold and adventurous life. With Mary and their children by his side, he pursued his passions – skiing, hunting, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors. He and Mary took destination fly fishing trips to Mexico for Marlin, Sailfish, and Dorado, to the Caribbean for Permit and Bonefish, and even to Africa where he landed a 150-pound tuna. 

 One of his greatest joys was hunting in Alaska with his brother Jim for mountain sheep, grizzly bear, and caribou. The family made many cherished trips to Alaska to fish for salmon together.

 Mark was preceded in death by his sister, Donna; brother, Jim; and son, Scott.

 Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Thompson; daughter, Natalie Simrell; and grandson, Dalton Simrell. 

 He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

 Celebration of Mark’s life will be at Thomason Funeral Home in Weiser, Idaho on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, at 11 a.m., followed by a luncheon at St. Agnes Catholic Church Parish Hall.