On April 8, 2021, a top hand was added to the ranks of the Celestial Range Riders with the passing of Alan Thompson.
Alan Morrell Thompson was born in Berkeley, California on September 23, 1952 to Lucille (Smith) and Morrell Thompson. He grew up in rural areas of Montana and Idaho, along the way acquiring a love for all things equine. In his youth, he would do anything to be involved with horses, working as a wrangler on many ranches, and ultimately riding rodeo in high school and college. He also coached rodeo teams at the University of Montana during the 1980s. At the same time, he developed an abiding interest in the history and roles of African Americans in the American west, a passion that resulted in his life-long work as a cultural historian.
Alan graduated from the University of Montana with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology. He augmented his studies with several graduate level courses in cultural anthropology.
Alan married the love of his life, Rosalie Walsh on August 7, 1993. Though their time together was cut far too short, they renewed their 26-year wedding vows during an Alaskan cruise and spent another delightful week traveling inland.
During his long professional career, he worked at numerous institutions and organizations including Quest Communications, the Montana Equal Rights Commission, Home Ranch in Steamboat, Colorado, and several universities. Those included University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (as the director of various TRIO programs), University of Montana Counseling Center and the Montana Tech Upward Bound program. He retired as Career Services Coordinator and Academic Advisor at Helena College. Throughout his academic career, he was a strong, vocal and articulate supporter of and advocate on behalf of minority students, citizens and communities in the towns and institutions he worked in.
Alan’s research, numerous oral history interviews with members of Montana’s African American community, publications and presentations gained him national recognition as one of Montana’s preeminent Black historians. He did extensive work regarding Montana’s Black cowboys and did presentations including African Americans and Montana Equine Heritage at the Montana Historical Society. He received several grants from the Montana Arts Council and other entities to conduct research on Black cowboys and western African American history. Alan’s contributions to the knowledge and understanding of Black Montana cowboys and culture as well as other aspects of Montana’s Afro-American community heritage have added new and important dimension to how we all view the West.
Alan was extraordinary, kind, funny, loving, unfailingly generous and genuinely gracious. He cherished his family and heritage, and was a masterful storyteller. He’ll forever be remembered for his sense of humor, broad grin and rollicking laugh. His phone calls to “check in” with his friends across the country, spreading joy and good news will forever remain one of his hallmarks.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille and Morrell Thompson; his brother Jamie Thompson; his aunt Alma (Smith) Jacobs; and his beloved cousin Cheryl Fisher.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 28 years, Rosalie K. Walsh-Thompson of Helena; his step mother Grace Thompson of New York; brother-in-law Walter Walsh of Helena, sisters-in-law, Theresa Bayani (Arteen) of Littleton, CO; and Gayle George (Dan) of Beaverton, OR; his cousins Mike Haskins (Mary Foley) of North Fork ID, Kevin Smith (Linda) of Sebastapol, CA, Dr. Damany Fisher (Danica) of Handen, CT, Dr. Maisha Winn (Lawrence) of Sacramento, CA, and a large extended family.
The family wishes to offer their deepest appreciation for the assistance provided by everyone involved in responding to the 911 call on April 8.
Memorials can be made to the Montana Historical Society, the Dorothy Walsh Group Home (care of BSW, 845 S. Wyoming Street, Butte, Montana, 59701) or a charity of donor’s choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 8, 2023 at Our Lady of the Valley Church, 1502 Shirley Rd, Helena, with a Luncheon to follow.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Thursday June 8, 2023
Our Lady of the Valley
1502 Shirley Rd
Helena, MT
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Thursday June 8, 2023
Our Lady of the Valley
1502 Shirley Rd
Helena, MT
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Mark Tullis says
The best friend a person could ever ask for!
Joan Specking says
My amazing friend. I can’t say how much I miss you. My heart is broken.
Jeffrey W Salisbury says
Alan set an impossible example of how to remain in contact with all of those he befriended, whose numbers are legion. He was a great friend to any who desired an honest relationship. Rest in peace, Alan…
Doug Badenoch says
Alan was a good friend and joyous spirit. I have been his friend since 1964. My classmates and I are enriched from knowing him and inconsolable at his passing.
Marcia Tunby McChesney says
Alan was a gentle man and I enjoyed visiting with him every once in a while. He was very talented and reached out to many in our class.
Tom Naegele says
Rosie and All who had the Pleasure & Gift of Alan Thompson in our lives. A friend since the 70’s and beyond. A Gentleman and powerful spirit. Alan will continue to be with and his Faith will support us as We move forward. Rosie sending you Prayers of support & Love ❤️. Alan …RIP
Margaret Woo says
I will miss our occasional meetings and fun conversations, remembering out time in the food service at UM, and so many other topics. Will mis Alan’s great smile and always positive attitude. RIP my friend. Condolences to Rosie.
Susan Lacey says
I’ll always remember his positive spirit and fun personality. He played clarinet real well and was a friend to all.
John Zeier says
I used to walk home after school with Alan, through Cooper Park, then he’d turn up eighth and I’d continue down Story St.
Ellen B Baumler says
Alan was a wonderful community resource and such a lovely, happy person. He spoke to my Helena College students many times about his research on black cowboys and his stories and visits were always so appreciated. He was well loved by all who knw him and he will be sorely missed.
Terri John says
Alan was a warm, witty, and wonderful man with a relaxed manner that put everyone at ease. He brought out the best in those around him because that is what he saw and mirrored back to them. Rosie, my heart breaks for you at Alan’s sudden passing. Know that we are here for you now and in the days ahead.
Nancy Davis says
Alan was a bright beautiful sunbeam. He was one of the best listeners I’ve ever encountered. He was immensely interesting yet was more interested in others! He exuded positivity and was a joy to be around. He made me feel like an instant friend. Bless you Alan. Love to you Rosie
Ernest Marsh says
Cowboy Alan. I will miss our talks. Your a Rider In The Big Montana Sky. “Tap ‘Er Light… You Go Alan”. Let’s make a Western one day.
Teresa Graham says
Rosie, I am so sorry for your loss. What a kind and gentle soul he was. I was blessed to have the pleasure of working with him and becoming a friend. He was such an interesting man and found so much joy in living. I will miss his beautiful smile and great laugh. May you find peace in your loving memories. Live and prayers to you.
Jules P Harrell says
The telephone was invented for Mr. Alan Thompson to call us on. He fashioned it into a lasso, bringing in those of us who wandered too far away from the Big Sky. What will we do without his seasonal calls?
How is he best remembered? We tell our children and grandchildren stories about Alan’s remarkable Grandmother, Mother, and Aunt. We will make certain they hear of Alan’s deep love of nature, history, and people. The Harrell family will miss his kind spirit.
Certainly, we have less use for the telephone.
Jules, Zabra, and Janet Harrell
Craig Olson says
Al called me on Monday, April 5th to see if I was going to watch the NCAA Championship men’s basketball game that night. Of course he knew I was because he was very perceptive of all of his friends’ interests. And Al was his normal cheerful self. Even though I had not personally seen Al face to face much in recent years, he always showed great interest in how my family was doing. Al was one of the first people I met in the dormitory in college in the fall of 1970 and he was a true friend from that point on. I’m sorry that phone call last week from Al was the last time I would get one from him. Al was one of a kind. Our condolences go out to Rosie.
Craig and Susan Olson
Peoria, Arizona
Dundee Warden says
Rosie, our hearts are with you at this difficult time. Arnold and Alan were definitely 2 peas in the same pod sharing their love of old Westerns and weekly phone chats. I have missed seeing him within this covid year and will sorely miss him coming into the shop for his High and Tight haircuts, laughs and visits. He beautifully carved out his unique mark in this life.
God Bless,
Dundee and Arnold
William Marcus says
Alan had the dorm room next to mine in Miller Hall at UM 1971-72. We would see each other very occasionally over the years but the encounters were memorable for his warmth and hearty laugh. His career was impressive and his legacy of the stories of African-Americans in Montana will endure. My condolences to his wife, family and friends.
Pete and Margaret Haugland says
Alan was my husbands first friend in high school. Alan enjoyed visiting the Haugland ranch often. Alan helped ride and work cattle. He was best man in our wedding. Alan attended many of the Haugland reunions. We fondly called him cuz. He called weekly to check on us. I know he also called Pete’s Aunt and Mom. He was so kind and generous with his time. Rosie our hearts are with you at this difficult time.
Janice and Delbert High says
We will always treasure knowing Alan for most of his life! We were up at Burkhart’s branding calves and Alan was there, I don’t know how old he was but, Bud put him upon his big team roping horse and gave him a rope. He roped til we were almost done, and he finally caught one and, he says, quick take my picture!!! Will miss his big smile and his phone calls!!!
Jennie Catlin Nemec says
Al was always a bright spot and a great friend to all, with a bright sense of humor and a truly generous spirit. We were all better for having known him and that great laugh of his. He is missed.
Jane Horton says
Alan, you always had such interest in all things, and your smile and laugh raised the level of happiness around you. Thank you for your spirit, goodwill and tenacity in everything you did and touched. You are missed. Our family knew Al’s as our mothers worked together at the MSU Library when we were young. Lasting and good memories….RIP, my friend.
Butch Biskupiak says
Alan was such a kind and amazing person. Thoughts and prayers
Charles F Steele says
Fare forward, voyager! Allen’s passing is indeed a profound reminder of what beautiful human beings he and his brother Jamie were. Despite the difference in their ages, Jamie looked so much like his older brother! And seeing Allen’s photograph brought back a flood of emotion for the loss of my beautiful, cherished childhood friend, Jamie, who was taken from us so many years ago. In their memories, God’s peace and blessings to his family.
Ken Jones says
Alan has been a cherished friend since our anthropology days at UM. Working with me at guest ranches in Wyoming and Colorado, we had a friendship that was very special to me. Every time I had a crisis in my life, Alan seemed to show up and help me through. HIs phone calls were timely! I send my condolences to Rosalie and all of his friends. He will be sorely missed, but his spirit will always be around to all who knew Alan.He loved people, and people loved him! As Alan would say, Tap her light, see you on the other side.
Crystal Wong Shors says
A visit from Alan made any day better. He was a joy to work with, a joy to know. Smart, thoughtful and authentic. It was a gift to know Alan. I keep one of the sweet grass braids he gave me, the scent it still carries reminds me of the outdoors he loved. I hope warm memories will bring his friends and family comfort.
Danny Small says
Hasta la vista, gentle teacher.
Libby Langston says
Alan was such a dear person, and I just can’t believe I won’t be getting anymore calls from my ‘buddy’ of the past 39 years. His obituary describes him so well. Thank you to the author who wrote about him so eloquently.
Mary Hibbard says
Alan was the most loving the thoughtful person. He was always a welcome site any time I saw him, greeting me with a contagious smile and always asking after me and my family. I will never forget the beautiful baby moccasins he gave to my girls when they were born. And he was so excited when I told him I was marrying a cowboy. He even gave me my first silk scarf. Sending love to Alan’s family, knowing his influence and loving energy will be with us forever.
Gary Thomas says
Was a freshman at the U of M with “Big Al”, he always had that big smile and great laugh. Rodeo club was where he felt his best. As Mark Tullis said who was also a freshman at the time, you couldn’t ask for a better man
Ken Pepion says
Shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of my old friend, Alan Thompson. Lots of stories about fishing trips, cross country ski outings when we were much younger, and so many mutual friends. A kind and thoughtful heart, always seemed to reach out for a phone call at the right time even though we’re miles apart. We talked on April 6th about meeting up in late May, but now there’s an empty saddle in the old corral. Condolences to Rosie and family. RIP my friend.
Kathleen Dolezal says
Rosie, so sorry to read of the passing of your husband. He and you are in my prayers.
Karen says
It was my pleasure to work for Al’s
Mother in Bozeman. Loved hearing
Stories of her sons. Even when Al
Would dive under a bucking horse
To get a great picture.sincerely
A Fan
Vic Reiman says
Alan was a wonderful man who brightened lives wherever he went and was, no doubt, one of the very most interesting people I have ever known. Our mother’s were friends and we met when we were 8 years old. I knew him in Missoula and when I moved to Helena 25 years ago–there he was. Al was a hugely generous person who would put a quick end to a bad day with a word or a smile.
Our condolences to Rosie. Rest in Peace, old friend.
Shanni K. Barry says
I am so saddened to hear of Alan’s passing, Rosie. You both are the kindest people and his is a great loss to our community. I have thought of you often, Rosie, and have been praying for your comfort and healing. <3
Shanni
Cheryl Vukasin says
What an amazing man! Alan was the kindest, caring, and thoughtful individual. You always made us laugh with your stories and always made life so interesting. Rosie so very sorry for your loss and sending prayers to you and your family.
Randy & Cheryl Vukasin
Brete Thibeault says
So many memories since 8th grade. I am thankful we had a good talk a couple of weeks ago. Alan set an example for us in how not to give power to an affront. He truly rose above them and preferred the positives life had to offer.
I will save the sweetgrass braids he gave me years ago but I will burn some sage today for my old friend.
I am sorry for your heartache, Rosie.
Jerry Bygren says
I have great memories as RA’s in Craig Hall and UM rodeo club in mid’s70’s. He used to stop in our house early in the mornings to have coffee on visits he would make to the Flathead l will miss him.
Fran says
Rosie, I know your heart is broken. Sending HIS loving comfort to you in the absence of your beloved Alan.
Ann M. Johnson says
I was on an archaeological field crew with Alan in 1972. He was a hard worker and fun.
Ann Johnson
Rick Hays says
Alan’s passion for youth or new employees was inspirational and infectious. He was always positive and seeing the brightest side of anything. I hope and pray the wonderful memories of Alan will help Rosie, family and friends through these challenging times. Just saying his name always brings a smile to my face and nice memory to mind. God bless, Alan!
Arlene Haugland says
I was so shocked to hear of Alans passing, always had a call from him weekly to see how things were going, he always had a smile on his face when we would see him and loved to talk cowboy things,, he will be missed, He was like family to the Haugland family, sympathy goes out to Rosie !!!
Robin Castle says
Rosie – so sorry to hear about Alan. I think about you and Alan so often. Please know I’m praying for you and healing. Robin
Lannie and Kathy Deserly says
Alan taught us the meaning of being a friend. There is hardly more we can add to this beautiful outpouring of tributes to Alan. We can’t remember a time in our Helena life (since 1995) that Alan wasn’t a part of it. We marveled at the love and interest he showed in everything he did and everyone he knew… and there were so many! We are still in disbelief that we won’t hear that voice on the other end of the line saying that he was calling just to ‘check in.’ He made us feel that we were important to him and there are few greater gifts in life that a person can give another. So thankful that we have his last message recorded forever on our phone. We’ll listen to him again in the days ahead and remember what an incredibly special man Alan was.
Diane snyder says
Rosie, we are so sorrowful for the sudden passing of your beloved Alan.
We always enjoyed the times we were able to share visits with him around ‘Moms kitchen table’ .
We will miss him.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Skip and Diane
Brenda and family
Lois and family
Carla and family
Kevin and family
Ken and family
And , of course, Mom..aka Sheila
Brenda Conner says
My thoughts and prayers are with you Rosie in this very trying time. Thank you for sharing Alan with us throughout the years. We are blessed that we have had the honor of including you, Alan and your family in our family. Much love Rosie.
Becca Kohl says
Mrs. Jacobs and Mrs. Smith always doted on Alan – to our eternal envy. When working with Alan on Montana history – COWBOYS! HORSES! – I came to know him as a dear and helpful fellow with an excellent memory and interesting stories. Oh, Rosie, please take comfort in how much Alan was admired and loved. Your sudden loss is devastating – my condolences.
Bill Baillie says
I met Alan in 1971 at UM on the rodeo team. My heart is heavy with his loss. He never had a bad word to say about anyone and was always encouraging us to ride the best ride we could. What a man and what a cowboy! A true gentleman. I can hear him now–“Charge the front end!” and “Lift the rein!”
Thank you Alan, you will live in my heart forever.
Eloise Thompson says
Alan was such a wonderful friend to Gray and me…on so many levels…Alan and I worked together at UM, we had friends in common from Bozeman, where he grew up, and I learned so much from him about Black Cowboys. I wanted to introduce him to the Hawaiian Paniolo (Cowboy). Like all of you, he checked in with us and visited us in Missoula when he could. We were privileged to know him. Tears are coming to me right now. Condolences to Rosie. Eloise and Gray Thompson
Debbie Johnson says
Alan was someone you couldn’t forget. We were in 4-H together in the early 60’s. I remember my brother, Dan, teaching the group photography and Alan was very interested. I remember his Mom working at the MSU Library and bringing one of the best beef stews I ever tasted to one of our 4-H potlucks. I lost track of Alan and then one day I met up with him in Macy’s and he gave me a huge bear hug. I never saw him again, but have thought of him frequently.
Keith Olson says
Sadness overcomes me to hear of Al’s passing. I think back to my days of trying to learn to play snare drum rudiments and read music notation
in Bozeman Public Schools summer band program with Al. We spent many days in that old band room upstairs in the Wilson School building perspiring profusely! Al always had a gentle, kind and joyous spirit within him that was apparent to all that came to know him.
Now my spirits are lifted remembering those times…… Thanks Alan and PLAY ON brother
Beth Schoyen says
Seeing Alan always brought a smile to my face. He was such a lovely and loving man. My heart breaks for you Rosie.
Jo Newhall says
Al was a close high school ski friend. I have carried great memories of his laugh and friendship into my adulthood. He was a fine and always interesting friend to have. Rosie, I never met you but know you two must have had an interesting life together. I am so sorry you have lost him! This world was a better place having had Al in it, as I am sure your life was!
Robert Kampfer says
Great Guy. I only knew him in the UM Marching Band , but he was a really positive presence. Looks like that was what everyone else saw in him.
Sheila Tucker says
Sheila Tucker
Dear Rosie You know how much I valued you and Alan and the rest of your family. I always enjoyed our get togethers
and visits. You know I am always here for you nights and days in any way I can.
Love Sheila.
Leslie Ruacho says
I am so saddened to learn that Alan has passed. I will remember his sense of humor, his kindness to others. vaya con dios, my friend.
Scott Meredith says
Alan was such a sweetheart. I echo what other people have said here, that talking with him made any day better. This one hurts.
Julie Rader says
Rosie,
I am so sorry for your loss and I was so shocked to hear of his passing from you. Although I never met Alan he seems like an incredible man, which explains why you are the wonderful woman you are. I can only imagine the two of you laughing and sharing your lives together.
“The wind of heaven is that which blows between a horses ears.”–Bedouin Proverb
Sending you all my love,
Julie Rader
Bill R Iverson says
Holey cow – did we ever have a good time in Routt County Colorado. Seems like yesterday. Condolences to all of his family and friends. Happy Trails Alan!!
Thomas Foor says
A cowboy’s image is often as a loner on the prairie. 51 years ago I learned that you, my dear friend, were the opposite—the most social, gregarious and truly interested in others person I have known. I too will miss the phone calls and the “swing bys” when you are in town. Thank you A.T. Tom
Fath Ruffins says
I was heartbroken to hear of Alan’s sudden passing. Though we did not see each other much, he kept in touch with his cherished phone calls over the years. I met Alan when we were children. Our fathers were graduate students at Iowa State University in the mid-1950s. Eventually, my parents moved to Washington DC and we saw the Thompsons regularly as his father’s jobs in the Middle East brought him frequently to Washington. We mourned with them at the early and tragic loss of his brother Jamie. Especially his mother and his aunt were so fascinating to me as a child who became a historian, due to their research interests and perspectives on the world. Alan was one of the kindest, most upbeat, most interesting people that I have ever met. I learned much about the history of Black people in the West from Alan and his lived experiences and historical investigations. Through his good offices, I was able to acquire a very important Montanan Black family collection for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. He was so thoughtful and kind–you could hear him smile over the phone. I am absolutely stunned to hear of his sudden passing and my prayers are with his wife. I had planned to visit him last summer ( 2020) but COvid 19 put a stop to that. I am so so sorry that I never got to see him again. I hope that he is happily riding the range in the heaven that he must be in. May he rest in peace.
Godfrey Saunders says
Rosie,
Sorry to hear of Alan’s passing. He was a great friend and an inspiration in my life. I will miss him very much.
Godfrey Saunders
Jim Drummond says
Al was a class ahead of me in high school, but he always included us “underclassmen” in his circle of friends. Whether on marching band competition in Canada, or classroom projects, or just eating lunch in the cafeteria, Al’s infectious smile and sense of humor would brighten our day. Rest In Peace Old Friend.
Jon Williamson says
I was so sorry to hear of Alan’s passing. He was a kind friend who never failed to keep in touch. I will miss his large laugh and generous spirit.
Fred Kessler says
I was shocked to hear of Alan’s passing. He was always a better friend to me than I was to him. I remember coming home from working late and Alan and Phyllis had been sitting at the table waiting for me to come home for dinner. He just dropped in to see how we were doing. I love his selfless friendship. He was a blessing to everyone that he met.
marilyn lindemulder says
We were friends in high school. He was a grade behind me, but my friend Janet and I always had such fun laughing and joking with Alan. He was always smiling and that always made my day.My heart goes out to you, Rosalie. I’m sorry I never got to meet you. He is still smiling that smile…I just know it.
Thomas Barnicoat says
Rosie, I am So sorry to hear this sad news, I will keep you and yours in My prayers !!!!
Ric Moser says
The world is a poorer place. Alan was the kindest friend anyone could want. A true intellectual with an unfettered curiosity, he leaves behind a legacy of a life well lived. Pam and I are devastated by Alan’s passing and out thoughts are with Rosie as she goes forward.
Nancy Drusch says
Alan, just loved the way you would suddenly be “there ” or the wonderful unexpected phone call to say ”howdy.” Always a welcome visitor whether with his mom or his aunt. We’d sit and visit about anything or everything. My husband was a talented and well/known saddlemaker…he and Alan shared many interests. And Alan had many questions and showed us many many beautiful photographs
Strange how I was thinking of him for the last few weeks…time to say “so long” and you’ll find Chip to visit with now.
Love and kinship to Rosalie…it’s their presence here on Earth we miss. Nancy Drusch
Kevin Smith. says
Alan is my cousin. In between my sister and me as children we didn’t get to see each other much due to distance and other factors but one of my fondest memories of him as well as Jamie was a summer I spent in mont. we went to our aunt Alma’s and uncle Marcus’s cabin. It was so much fun. We d get up early and prowl the streams there fishing. One after Alan and I were out th powerful thunder storm popped up man it was beautiful. Just standing there in that meadow staring in to his smile. Peace
Keri Wash says
Alan worked for me at Fish, Wildlife & Parks. So sorry to hear of his passing. He was always so joyful, never a complaint, wonderful worker and all around beautiful human being. He will be greatly missed!
LIsa Walser says
Alan was an extraordinary man in many ways. One of the things I most admired about him was his positivity. I will miss his calls and visits.
john ilgenfritz says
Rosie,
Condolences to you, family and the multitude of folks who were touched by Alan’s very diverse and full life. As you know, Rosie, I met Alan through knowing you as I took a class on resume preparation in the early 90s. I would run into Alan, over the years usually while we were each gassing up at the Holiday Convenience store near Lundy Center; but most recently at the Real Food Store. He always, always had a smile on his face, while we swapped stories and updates on what was going on in our personal lives and in Helena. Alan was a “day brightener”. He is dearly missed. Hugs, rather, “elbow bumps” to you, Rosie.
Sincerely,
john ilgenfritz
Alfonso Rickerson says
I met Alan through a mutual friend and over the years we checked in with each other. I loved our phone calls because he would teach me something every time. He even helped me when I was organizing my fly-fishing tournament. I am going to miss our calls. May God bless his soul and his family.
Susan Kaup says
I am honored to have been among Alan’s “check-ins”. We connected at the Cornhusker Co-op residence hall while he was getting his Masters at the University of Nebraska. The Co-op was a family and Alan was a warm and giving friend to many. I am full of sadness and will miss his lifelong friendship. Sending warm thoughts to his wife Rosie and family.
Ken Myer says
Alan was a bright spot in the world, his laugh, his constant smile, and genuine nature touched everyone he met. Alan was the type of person who made other people feel good just by being in his presence, or by receiving one of his phone calls. He is deeply missed by the Myer family.
Peter and Michelle Van Nice says
Rosie,
We are so deeply sorry and saddened by your loss. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Marti Johnson says
Rosie and all of Alan’s family, I met Alan when my office for Reach Higher Montana was located at Helena College. Even though I didn’t work for the college I was made to feel welcome and Alan was one of the best at that! I partnered with him on events for students and he was so passionate about furthering the interests of students. What a kind and caring person he was.
Rosie, I worked with you many years ago (I won’t give that away!) at Carroll and loved working with you also. The fact that the two of you found one another in this life, is by no means a surprise. I would call it perfect!
Take care, my prayers are with you.
Marti (Porter) Johnson
Bob and Annette Miller says
Alan was a long time friend. He had an infectious laugh and a keen interest in friends. We met at the University of Nebraska Cornhusker Co-op residence hall where he studied for his MS. Over the years we keep in touch and visited him when ever he was in CO. Alan was a warm and caring friend and we will miss his phone calls. Rosie, our hearts and prayers are with for you at Alan’s sudden passing.
Joan/Cliff Montagne says
Shirtless spring skiing at Bridger Bowl when Al was a member of the Northern Division Nordic Ski Team – he was the only one without a sunburn ! And the rolling chuckles and jokes that kept the team going when Cliff was the coach back in the 1970’s.
An accomplished historian and friend to all when it was not always easy in sometimes backward Montana. We will miss his presence in this world.
Kristie E McPhie says
from MYF in Junior High School through High School Art Club trips and antics Alan’s contagious laugh, open heart, and fascination with so many varied interests has been a constant in my life, as he was with so many. there is an emptiness now… knowing there won’t be a call to stop by or a quick check in out of the blue.. we will miss him, and our hearts are with you Rosie… I know this is such a sad and lonely time. hopefully this tremendous show of support, knowing what a difference he made for so many, will help you just a bit. If we can help in any way to see the oral histories and documentation developed, or there is anything else we can do, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Scott and Kristie Eagle McPhie
M Greggs says
My condolences to the family and friends. Losing a loved one is never easy. Take the time to grieve and find comfort in knowing that God is near all those calling on Him. May God comfort you during these difficult times. Faith >Hope >Love >Prayer >
Bob Carpenter says
I’m sad to see of Alan’s passing. I have knew Alan since high school and he was a good friend, What I remember most about Alan is he always had a smile on his face. Rest In peace brother. You will be missed
Deb Gronli Hokanson says
So saddened to learn of Alan’s passing. I was privileged to meet him while in graduate school at UNL, 1977-78. He introduced himself when he noticed my Bozeman MT license plates and quickly became a good friend. I fondly remember Alan’s quick wit, his cheerful demeanor, his hearty laugh, and his kind and generous personality. The world is a better place because of him, it’s very apparent that he deeply touched many lives. My sincere condolences to his loved ones. 💔
Jeff Salisbury says
Well, it’s been a year now and the sting of losing Alan is still sharp. After reading the great number of responses posted here I am again moved with the memory of our dear friend. So many of the remembrances listed the indelible, wonderful character traits that made Al a one of a kind: his warm personality punctuated by a broad, genuine smile and his hearty laugh. He epitomized the curiosity of a true scientist and historian, his memory for detail was exquisite, whether it was a fascinating fact of time long ago or a keen interest in some aspect of your family that he would remember, his positive outlook on life was infectious and one could not help but feel better after he moved on to another friend. We kidded that he was like an old male dog who would drink his fill early on a Saturday morning and troupe his way through the valley visiting various and sundry friends and acquaintances and he would wind up at my back door and greet me with a ” hey there buddy boy!” We could pass the time seamlessly on a wide range of topics and I would find out what new adventures and ventures he was experiencing, always something new and exciting. Our favorite times were at ‘Cinco de Mayo’ celebrations or Oktoberfest where he would take up residence in a corner of our summer kitchen and banter with all who stuck their heads to say hello. We always had time for a ‘schnert’ as he called it, OK maybe a few ‘schnerts’, usually a gold tequila or some cold Yaegermeister! Alan and Rosie were a team matched in Heaven, loving and supporting one another in their various pursuits. I know I do not grieve as you do, Rosie, but if yours is much greater than mine it must be enormous indeed. Peace to you, Rosie, and may we all take comfort in the privilege of knowing such a fine Man… may God keep you close my friend. Jeff and Judy
Les Kreifels says
One of those special individuals that are just impossible not to like. He was everybody’s freind.
David and Mary Jane Masters says
A wonderful person and friend. We will miss him greatly.
Patrick Weasel Head says
Mrs. Thompson, Alan’s mother was libraruan and French teacher at Browning HS when I was a junior and senior there and Alan was a small boy. Later we got reconnected at The University of Montana and reestablished our relationship. It was a pleasure reconnecting and learning about his accomplishments. I was saddened to see his obituary in our local paper and wish him RIP.
Luana Ross says
I met Alan in Missoula and kept in touch with him for decades. He was simply one of the nicest human beings ever. Journey well, my friend.
Libby Langston says
Alan was my very first friend in Missoula when I came to the University of Montana on the National Student Exchange Program from University of Georgia in 1982. Alan was my contact from Missoula as I made plans to come here for one quarter of school. (I think Alan was head of the program for UM). He made me feel so welcome and comfortable in this new world. I ended up staying here because I loved Missoula from the moment I arrived. Alan continued to be my friend for the next 40 years. What a wonderful human being Alan was… I miss him.
Ilean Hill Gladstone says
Dear Rosie,
I met Alan about 30+ years ago. I was a recent UM student. I attended a student mixer for KyiYo Indian Club. Alan was there. He introduced himself and invited everyone to hear a Montana Black Cowboys presentation that he was giving. He offered to be a friendly ear if we needed help. He was so outgoing and his lecture topic was so unexpected that I attended it. We ran into each other often throughout the years, at different gatherings. I was always happy to see Alan at an event. He was such a joyful spirit. He was kind & generous. Amazing intellect. Always interesting to visit.
I was just thinking about friends that I hoped to see at random Montana events and Alan popped into my mind.
My prayers are with you & Alan’s family. I’m lucky to have met him and considered him a friend.
Dawn Reynolds says
The first word that comes to mind about Alan is Kind. He would come through the Transfer Station, sharing his Gourmet magazines and Ranching Life mags with us. Always a smile to make your day a bit better. He was a special person, gone too soon. Condolences to Alans family.
Joan Schneider says
Alan was such a pleasure to work with at the Montana Human Rights Commission, so approachable and kind. He and I shared a passion for horses and mules, and one day he came out to the fairgrounds to watch me work with my mule. I recently came across a picture he drew for me of himself riding a mule, ready to rope. After learning of his untimely passing, I will frame it as a reminder of the good conversations and interests we had together. Thanks to Alan, I am now more aware of the importance of black cowboys in American history.
Eloise Thompson says
I read that Alan’s memorial will be this week…June 8th, 2023. Unfortunately I won’t be able to attend as I will be in Hawai’i just then, but I will place some flowers for him at the statue of a great Hawaiian Cowboy, Ikua Purdy, in the town of Kampala/Waimea on the Big Island of Hawai’i. I had always hoped that Alan could come with my husband and me to visit the land of the Hawaiian Cowboy/Paniolo, but it was not to be. We are so lucky to have been among his many many friends. Aloha Oe, dear Alan Thompson.
Eloise Thompson says
Correction to the above: Kamuela/Waimea
Calvin Wilson says
So sorry for your loss Rosie, Al was a friend of mine since the U of M rodeo team We had a lot of fun those four years and I was always amazed at how anyone could get on a bull with a full grin on his face and to have the time of his life. Throughout the years we kept in touch with Al by phone and we had many long conversations about what he was up to and what my family was doing. May God continue to watch over you and we are sorry to hear of his passing.