Before he graduated from Chadron High in 1965, he played football, basketball, baseball, golf, and excelled as a hurdler for the track team.
Gar attended The University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Chadron State where he graduated with a degree in Chemistry. This led him to a 35-year career at Pfizer Animal Health in Lincoln.
During his time at Norden Labs (Pfizer), Gar met the love of his life, Jackie. They married on November 20, 1976, in Lincoln, and celebrated their beautiful union every day of the last 48 years. Jackie and Gar raised two sons, Cale, and Ty. He cherished teaching them to golf, fish, hunt, and play baseball. Attending Cale and Ty’s many athletic events were always a source of pride and enjoyment. In retirement years the couple was thrilled to become grandparents to Cale and Lindsey’s triplets, Ayla, Bode and Carter. Several years later they were overjoyed to become grandparents again to Ty and Katie’s children Reed and Charlotte Thompson.
Gar’s love of fishing brought him great joy and led to many lifelong friendships. He was a proud member of the Lincoln Bass Club.
The time Gar spent with family was full of love and adventure. He was quick to forgive and showed respect and kindness to all. We are forever grateful for his patience and determination when teaching us how to golf, fish, bowl, or throw a baseball.
Play dates and overnights with grandkids eventually evolved to cheering them on at their many activities. From dance and theatre, to sporting events of every variety. Gar was in his sports element once again but this time as a cheering grandparent and “unofficial” referee.
Gar’s memory and love for life will be carried on by his wife Jackie, sons Cale (Lindsey) and Ty (Katie) Thompson. The Thompson Grandchildren: Ayla, Bode, Carter, Reed, & Charlotte. Brother Skip (Bobbi) and sister Kathy (Mike), Sister-in-Law Joni and Mother-in-Law JoAnne. Several nieces, nephews and many caring friends contributed to his wonderful life.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Morrow Collision Center, 2801 N 83rd Street, Lincoln, NE.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Cancer Association in memory of Gary at PO Box 676226, Dallas, Texas 75267-6226 or by visiting www.kidneycancer.org.