Lori Thompson

In Loving Memory of Lori Thompson

Lori Diane Thompson, a beloved sister, aunt and friend, passed away on September 26,2025 at Essentia Health-Oak Crossing after a battle with cancer. She was 67 years old. Lori was born in Detroit Lakes, MN on June 5, 1958 to Veronica (Dahlberg ) and Lester Nylander, the youngest of five children. She grew up south of Audubon, MN on the family farm. 

Lori attended and graduated from Audubon Public Schools – class of 1976. Lori married Robert Thompson on August 4, 1984. They later divorced. After graduation Lori worked as a travel agent, UPS Driver, at Essentia Health and The SpeakEasy. Her heart was in the hospitality sector. In 1999 Lori and Kelly Kolpin along with two other partners opened the Tri Lakes Roadhouse south of Lake Park. Because of health issues of one of the partners they sold the Roadhouse to Lori’s niece, Stacey Anderson and her husband Matt in 2003. Lori ended her career in hospitality at the Northside Bar. For the past 7 years she worked as a bartender there. She loved her job! The owners, staff and patrons became family to Lori. She often talked about how good they all were to her. She will be deeply missed by all.

Lori loved her 2 GIRLS (her dogs), Lucy and Mya. They brought her great joy and she pampered them, cuddled with them, and doted on each one of them. Lori loved reading, crossword puzzles and watching sports on TV (her beloved Minnesota Vikings and Gopher sports). Lori was a Master Gardener and she thoroughly enjoyed her flowers. She loved the peace they brought to her.

Lori is preceded in death by her parents, Lester and Veronica Nylander; sisters LaVonne Langord and Lynette Mulcahy; brother-in-law Bob Porter. Lori is survived by her sister LuAnn Porter; her brother Russell and sister-in-law Laura Nylander and brother-in-laws; Keith Mulcahy and Rich Langord; Aunt Bonnie Simonson; Her 9 nieces and nephews: Robert (Deanna) Porter, Brian (Sarah) Porter, Mark (Amy) Porter, Sara (Kody) Backman, Katie Nylander, Kyle (Ashley) Nylander, Stacey (Matt) Anderson, Mandey Mulcahy (Jason Hunter) and Christina Wuollet (Gary DuPreez). 21 Great Nieces and Nephews. A Great Great niece and nephew. And her many friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church - 1043 Lake Ave Detroit Lakes- on October 18 at 1:00 with visitation an hour before the service. The Celebration will continue following the service at the Northside Bar – 521 Washington Ave, Detroit Lakes. In honor of Lori’s love of the Minnesota Vikings we ask that you wear Vikings attire to her Celebration of Life.

Lori’s kindness, warmth, and smile touched the lives of everyone who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and memories. Rest in peace dear Lori. We will love you always.