Anne Gibson Thompson, a senior counselor at Eastern Michigan
University from 1967 to 1976, died Feb. 4. She was 90.
While at Eastern Michigan, Thompson was a member of the
Women's Association (Faculty Women's Club) and was the
force behind the formation of the EMU Women's Commission
in 1972. Thompson served as the first chair of the
commission.
Thompson grew up in Lakeside, Mich., where her family
owned and operated the local general store. She earned
her teaching certificate at Kalamazoo College and began
her career in education as a teacher at Bridgman High School
in 1937.
Thompson served three years with the American Red Cross
during World War II, with assignments in Fort Bliss, Texas;
Roswell, New Mexico; and Topeka, Kansas. She received a
certificate signed by President Harry S. Truman "in
recognition of meritorious personal service."
Following the war, Thompson attended Indiana University,
where she received her master's degree and doctorate in
education. She worked in several administrative positions,
including dean of women at the State University of New
York at Fredonia and dean of students at Northern Michigan
University. In 1967, she joined the counseling staff at
EMU.
After her retirement, Thompson spent her winters in Florida
and her summers in Harbert, Mich.
Survivors include her sister, Harriette Gibson; a brother,
Jack Gibson; a sister-in-law, Betty Gibson; a stepson,
Thomas L. Thompson; and many nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions may be made to the River Valley
Senior Center in Harbert, Mich.; or the American Lung Association
of Michigan.
Eastern Michigan University also recently lost another
former employee. Ralph Johnston, a former
teacher at Eastern Michigan University, died Jan. 30.
He was 95.
Johnston was born in Medford, Mass. He attended Northeastern
University and the University of Maryland. Following graduation,
he enlisted in the Army and served in Asia and the Pacific
during World War II and in the Korean War. He received
numerous awards, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart
for his service.
After his retirement as Colonel in 1962, Johnston taught
at Eastern Michigan University and Jackson High School.
He later served as a probation officer for Washtenaw County.
Following his retirement in 1982, Johnston and his wife
moved to Hampton, N.H., and later San Mateo, Calif., where
he resided until his death.
Johnston is survived by a son, Ralph S. Johnston; three
daughters, Diane L. Vince, Donna L. Schmeeckle and Karen
A. McBride; six grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service at the Chapel of the Holy Cross and
burial in the Holy Cross Cemetery in San Francisco are
planned.
