THOMPSON, Ronald “Ron” Stewart

Thompson,Ronald “Ron” Stewart

Thompson – Ronald “Ron” Stewart Thompson, beloved partner, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, cowboy, and friend, passed away on Saturday, July 4th, 2026 in Medicine Hat, at the age of 72 years. Ron was the only child of Shorty and Elaine Thompson. He was born on October 4th, 1953, in Bassano, Alberta, where his lifelong love of ranching and rodeo began. Although he spent much of his life living and working in the Bassano and Strathmore areas, he returned to his hometown five years ago to be closer to family. Ron attended Bassano School and graduated in 1973. While he never pursued post-secondary education, some of his most valuable lessons were learned long before graduation—often while checking cattle on the lease under the watchful eye of Jack Peake, even on days he was supposed to be in school. As a teenager, Ron embraced the rodeo lifestyle, trying nearly every event. He even rode the occasional buffalo at convention rodeos when they were short of riders. In 1974, Ron married Darlene Stewart, and they welcomed two sons, Cody and Tyler. In 1995, he met Shirley Boucher, and they began their 31-year partnership. Throughout his career, Ron worked for several well-known operations, including LK Ranches, Snake Lake Ranches, Western Feedlots, and the Calgary Stockyards. A cowboy through and through, he found great satisfaction working with cattle and horses. He was a patient teacher who generously shared his knowledge of rodeo, livestock, and agriculture with anyone eager to learn, especially young people. Ron was equally generous with his time and dedicated many years to supporting the rodeo community. He served on numerous rodeo committees, was an Event Director with the Foothills Cowboys Association, a respected rodeo judge and clinician, an active member of the Canadian Classic Rodeo Association where he competed in team roping, and a valued member of the Bassano Rodeo Committee. Known for his kind heart, friendly smile, and willingness to strike up a conversation, Ron never met a stranger. He loved to visit, tell stories, and share his remarkable knowledge of the history of the Bassano area. Ron was predeceased by his parents, Shorty and Elaine Thompson. He is lovingly remembered by his partner, Shirley Boucher; his sons, Cody (Traci) and Tyler (Riley); his grandsons, Riley (Caitlyn), Scott (Taylor), and Lachlan and his great-granddaughter, Michaela. A Celebration of Ron’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 11th, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Bassano Community Hall in Bassano, Alberta. Refreshments will follow the program.

Cremation is entrusted to and conducted at

Smith Funeral Home Ltd., Brooks

Funeral arrangements entrusted to:

SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD., BROOKS, ALBERTA

Condolences may be forwarded through   www.sfh.ca  

Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free 866-362-4652

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