What began as a sign of affection some 65 years ago, continues
today with the commitment to service made by the professional staff at Thompson-Larson Funeral
Home.
In 1934, Theodore Thompson built the Thompson-Larson Funeral
Home as a wedding gift for his bride, Julia Larson. Ms. Larson
was the first female licensed funeral director in the state of
North Dakota.
In 1945, Edward and Catherine Fisher purchased the business
from the Thompsons. Mr. Fisher was a funeral director with roots
in the Wahpeton, North Dakota, area. Mrs. Fisher grew up in the
railroad town of Breckenridge, Minnesota. Prior to coming to
Minot, Mr. Fisher was a funeral director in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The Fisher family lived above the funeral home and the family
was actively involved in all aspects of the business. Ed and
Catherine's elder son, Tom, took a special interest and after
completing his education, returned to help his parents operate
the business. In 1972, Engen Eckmann joined the staff as a licensed
funeral director.
As the business grew, so did the demands placed upon the owners
and operators of Thompson-Larson Funeral Home. In 1983, Wes Burkart
joined the firm as a licensed funeral director. In 1984, Bruce
Kramer came aboard as business manager and to assist on funerals.
As a group, Tom Fisher, Engen Eckmann, Wes Burkart and Bruce
Kramer worked as managing partners in operating the funeral home.
This partnership continues today, with Engen Eckmann, Wes Burkart,
Bruce Kramer and Grace Fisher as active partners in the business.
In 1994, Casey Sidener joined the firm as a licensed funeral
director, followed in 1998, by Scott Schorr and in 2004, Kelly
Sorensen and Ben Slind.
Over the years Thompson-Larson has always striven to provide
dignified and compassionate service to the many families who
call upon us. Our commitment is also reflected in our support
of various organizations and activities throughout the region,
including church and civic groups, schools and charitable organizations.
