Harlow James Thompson passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024. He was born on January 15, 1925, to Howard and Marybelle (Peck) Thompson. Harlow was raised on a farm in Deer River, MN, alongside his seven siblings.

A beloved Husband, Dad, Grandpa, and Grandpa-Great, Harlow lived a full and remarkable life of 99 years. He has now been reunited with his cherished wife of 57 years, Vivian.

Harlow enlisted in the United States Navy in 1943, completing his Basic Training at Camp Farragut in Idaho. During World War II, he served aboard the USS Columbia (CL-56), a light cruiser. Assigned to the "M" Division, Harlow worked diligently below decks in the engine room. The ship and its crew displayed bravery in pivotal battles, including the Battle of the Empress Bay, the Battle of Leyte Gulf, and the Battle of Luzon. The USS Columbia sustained severe damage from three kamikaze attacks during the Battle of Luzon, yet its crew's courage remained steadfast. Harlow served his entire military tenure alongside his cousin Gordon Kossow, and he was honorably discharged in 1945.

Harlow lived the majority of his life in Alaska and Minnesota, where he was an avid outdoorsman. Harlow enjoyed gold mining adventures in Alaska, experiencing the thrill of discovery with friends and family. He also found deep joy and purpose in the woods and waters of both states. Harlow's love for fishing and hunting was unmatched, and he pursued these passions until his passing, leaving behind a legacy of countless cherished memories for his family and friends.

Harlow is survived by a large and loving family who will forever hold him in their hearts.

He is survived by his daughter Leona Thompson of Deer River, MN.

He is survived by his daughter Janice Thompson of Apache Junction, AZ; grandson Brandee Cartwright of Port Orchard, WA; and granddaughter Kayci Hanson and her husband Adam Christensen of Ninilchik, AK.

He is survived by his son Wayne Thompson and his wife Anita of Deer River, MN; grandson Harlow Thompson and his wife Shellbie of Deer River, MN; great-grandchildren Talina, Tristyn, and Trase; granddaughter Krissy King and her husband Kevin of Deer River, MN; great-grandson Kaden; granddaughter Beth Pualani and her husband Alex of Yakima, WA; great-grandchildren Gabriel and Harper.

He is also survived by his siblings, Howard (Carol) Thompson, Laverne Thompson, Lorraine Storlie, Rodney Thompson, and his sisters-in-law, Virginia Herreid and Ivy Harju.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian (Harju); his parents, Howard and Marybelle (Peck) Thompson; his sisters, Helen Arver and Sylvia Stangland; and his brother, Lyle Thompson.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are with the Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.