GARY LEROY THOMPSON

Gary Leroy Thompson passed away suddenly Nov. 16, 2003 at the age of 65.
He was born and raised in International Falls, Mn., then moved to Port Alberni, B.C. in 1966.
Gary was predeceased by his father, Anton (1996); and loyal companion, Bandit (2003).
He is survived by his loving family, mother, Mildred, mother-in-law, Polly, sister, Trudy (Frank) Dunn, and brother, Terry (Barb), all of Minnesota; his loving wife, Sandy (Kingerski); son, Jim (Colette); daughter, Janice (Brian) Hill; grandchildren, James, Bryan, Courtney, and Rhys; as well as many more close relatives and friends.
Growing up in International Falls, Gary was an avid hockey and football player. After high school graduation, he served three years in the U.S. Navy.
Gary spent five years steam-fitting at the Boise Cascade pulp and paper mill in International Falls, then moved to British Columbia in 1966, where he worked at Alberni Pulp and Paper and the Somass Mill until he retired in 1999.
He spent many of his working years involved in the IWA executive. He also spent a brief period farming in Alberta.
Gary was a dedicated soccer, hockey, and baseball coach, and also was very active with the Parksville & Qualicum Fish and Game Association. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and antique gun collector.
A funeral service for family and friends was held Friday, Nov. 21, 2003 at 11 a.m. at the Church of the Ascension of Parksville, B.C. A celebration of Gary’s life followed at the Arrowsmith Hall in Coombs, B.C.