Ken Thompson passed away Oct. 2 after a prolonged battle with congestive heart failure.

Ken was born in Rice Lake, Wis., but as a child moved to the Pacific Northwest where he lived for most of his adult life. Ken took on many interests, pursuing life as a foundry molder, a rancher, a horse trainer, a farrier, a livestock brand inspector, and even owned a town! Ken was an accomplished rodeo cowboy, competing in rodeos and team ropings throughout the Northwest. In 1978, he and his wife, Julie, purchased the town of Fields, where they built an arena and put on family-oriented ropings. As the Northwest winters grew colder, Ken moved to Arizona, where he enjoyed team roping in warmer weather.

Ken is survived by his three sons, Troy, Todd and Brad; sisters, Lois Thompson, JoAnn Scholz, and Joan Chaplik; grandchildren, Seth, Bryce, Chad, Tara, and Piper; great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family; and dear friends.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Julie; parents, Herman and Kate; and brother, Dick Thompson.

Donations in memory of Ken may be made to Harney County Home Health & Hospice, 415 N. Fairview, Burns, OR 97720.