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Gary R. Thompson, of Hornell

HORNELL-Gary R. Thompson, 65, of 368 Ontario St., Hornell, died Saturday evening (May 16, 2015) at Rochester General Hospital, following a long illness.

 

A native and life resident of Hornell, he was born July 27, 1949, and was the son of Kenneth & Vesta “Jean” (Graham) Thompson.

 

Gary grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1967). Following graduation, he worked briefly on the “road crew” for the Hornell Department of Public Works.

 

In 1969, he was drafted in to the US Army and served his country until his Honorable Discharge in 1971. He was a member of the 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry, 198th Brigade Americal Division (Long Range Recon). While serving in the Army, Gary was stationed for about a year in Viet Nam where he was wounded twice. He was the recipient of the 2 Bronze Stars and also Purple Heart Medal. Gary was exceptionally patriotic and proud of his military service.

 

Following his discharge from the military, Gary returned to work for the Hornell Department of Public Works in several capacities. In 1975, he began working at the Hornell Waste Water Treatment Plant where he remained until his retirement in 2005 as Chief Operator.

 

A talented craftsman & an exceptional woodworker, Gary was able to make just about anything out of wood. He enjoyed spending the summer months at his cottage at Silver Lake. He was a former member of the Hornell American Legion and the Hornell VFW.

 

Gary will forever be remembered as a “funny guy” with a quick wit a fantastic sense of humor. He could easily put a smile on everyone’s face with his humorous remarks and NO ONE WAS SAFE!! Gary had a deep love and appreciation of music. He had a beautiful voice and loved playing guitar & singing. He will be sadly missed by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him.

 

He was married on August 2, 1968 to the former Barbara Putallaz who survives. Also surviving are 2 daughters, Denise L. (Monte Trimble) Thompson of Arkport and Lorri (Alec) Lauzze of Victor, NY; 1 son, Mark R. Thompson of Reno, NV; 1 brother, Kenneth (Diane) Thompson of Perry, NY; 5 grandchildren, Alec Lauzze, Luke Lauzze, Natalie Trimble, Mia Trimble and Evan Trimble; several nieces & nephews.

 

Although Gary always said that he wanted a “Viking Funeral” at Silver Lake, the family of Gary R. Thompson will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY where a Memorial Service with full military honors will be held on Friday at 11:00 AM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.

 

Gary’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to The Disabled American Veterans Association, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

 

To leave an online condolence or print a memorial form, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com

 

In honor of Gary’s service to his country as a member of the US Army, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.


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