Raymond D. "Swede" Thompson, 85 years, of Fort Madison, Iowa died 7:15 am Friday March 1, 2013 at the Fort Madison Community Hospital, Fort Madison, Iowa. He was born April 14, 1927 at Revere, Missouri, the son of George Ellsworth and Edna (Peckham) Thompson. On July 29, 1946, he married Mary E. Carter at Kahoka, Missouri. She preceded him in death.

Raymond had been a resident of Fort Madison since 1942. He was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving during World War II. He was a fireman with the Fort Madison Fire Department, retiring after 45 years of service. He enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was of the Christian Faith.

He is survived by two daughters: Terry Hoenig, of Fort Madison, Iowa and Cheryl Hall, of Fort Madison, Iowa; three grandchildren, three great grandchildren, two great great granddaughters, and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one brother, George Thompson and two sisters: Violet Branch and Gloria Ruth Westermeyer.

Per his wishes, his body has been cremated. His family will greet friends from 6:00 - 7:00 pm Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison. A memorial service will follow and be held at 7:00 pm Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison, with Reverend John Simpson officiating. Private burial will be at the Oakland Cemetery, Fort Madison, Iowa at a later date. A memorial has been established for the Fort Madison Fire Department, contributions may be made at the Barr Memorial Chapel.