Gary Neal Thompson

Gary Neal Thompson, of Alexandria, passed away on February 15, 2026, just two days after celebrating his 74th birthday. A true gentle giant, Gary was characterized by his kind heart and hard-working nature, leaving an indelible mark on the land he farmed and the golf course he founded and developed.

Born on February 13,1952 in Bertha MN, Gary spent his early years as a dedicated farmer in Clarissa, MN. His entrepreneurial spirit and grit later led him to Alexandria, where he founded and built Geneva Golf Club. His hands-on leadership transformed the local landscape, creating a premier destination that remains a testament to his vision.

Central to Gary’s life was his 54-year marriage to his beloved wife, Barbara. Gary often recalled his memory of being on the playground in Kindergarten, seeing the cutest 1st grade girl, and thinking to himself "I'm going to marry that girl someday". His dream came true, and the two were wed on April 24, 1971. Together, they navigated the challenges and triumphs of a family farm and created the family golf business with unwavering dedication. Gary was truly a self-made man; his wisdom, insight and ambitions led to a legacy the entire family is very proud of. Though Gary was known for his immense work ethic, it was his quiet strength and humble generosity that truly defined him to those who knew him best. Gary loved his grandchildren with all of his heart and spent cherished time with each of them creating unforgettable memories. He was also very blessed to have so many close friends in both Minnesota and Arizona, where they wintered.

Gary is survived by his wife, Barbara; his five children: Ryan (Cindy) Thompson, Robyn (Andy) Wilkinson, Rychel (Shannon) Larson, Randy (Marcie) Thompson, and Rawney (Luke) Zauhar; and his ten cherished grandchildren: Jordan and Cameron Thompson, Jace and Dain Twardowski, Cora and Carver Larson, Danza and Ryker Thompson, and Mac and Zoe Zauhar. He is also survived by his mother, Verneil, and his siblings: Gail Pavlacky, Gregg Thompson, Glenda Schindler, Grant Thompson, and Bill Thompson. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard; his sister, Gwen Johanson; and two beloved grandchildren, Joely Thompson and Maxx Twardowski.

The family would like to express our heart-felt appreciation to the staff of the St. Cloud Hospital and the Nelson Care Center by Vivie for their extraordinary care during Gary's stay.

A visitation will be held from 12:00-3:00pm on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00am, with a visitation one hour prior, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alexandria.

In honor of Gary’s life and in lieu of flowers or monetary gifts, please direct any memorials to the Browerville Area Food Shelf or Douglas County Outreach Food Shelf.