Obituary of Ernestine Marie Elizabeth Thompson

Ernestine “Hanni” Marie Elizabeth Thompson, 94, of Winner’s Circle Apts. in Colonie, passed away peacefully on Saturday June 10, 2023 at Gateway House of Peace in Ballston Spa.  She was born on Nov. 9, 1928 in Schenectady and was the daughter of the late Arthur G. and Ernestine Kuehner Laabs.  Hanni was the beloved wife of the late Russell Wilson Thompson, whom she married on Feb. 3, 1951.  She was a housewife and homemaker.  Hanni loved knitting scarfs,   She donated hundreds of her scarfs to the Schenectady City Mission.  Growing up as a refugee during WW II, she could relate to those in need.  She also enjoyed her Geman heritage.  She was active in the Germania Hall in Troy and other German singing clubs, performing throughout the Capital District and traveling further spreading the culture.  A talented pianist, Hanni  played just up until recent times.  In her early years, she had worked for David’s Dept. store.  Among her family and friends, Hanni’s cooking and baking was second to none.

She is the devoted mother of Marc Russell Thompson (Jeanette) of Halfmoon, Rebecca Marie Kitchen (the late Guy Richard Kitchen) and Eric Russell Thompson (Theresa) of Clifton Park; dear sister of Virginia Brower (Jon) of Scotia and the ;ate Charlotte Gerstenberger (the late Karl); cherished grand mother of Shyra, Marc, Celistany, Jennifer, the late Randy, Kristin, Timothy, Brittany, Evan and Connor; she is also survived by her great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be celebrated privately for the family

Arrangements have been entrusted by the family to the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home,