Gerald "Jerry" Thompson

Published by admin on Tue, 03/18/2025 - 3:07pm

Gerald “Jerry” R. Thompson, 75, of Crystal Lake, passed away Friday, March 7, 2025, at Hancock County Health Systems in Britt.

Funeral services for Jerry Thompson were held Friday, March 14, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West in Britt.

Gerald Roger Thompson, the son of Robert and Joyce (Radke) Thompson was born on September 8, 1949, in Huron, South Dakota. He graduated from Wessington Springs High School with the Class of 1969.

After high school, Jerry enlisted into the United States Army, where he faithfully served for four years before being honorably discharged in 1972.

Upon his return home, Jerry took advantage of the G.I. Bill to attend technical college, earning a degree in carpentry. He then began his career at Winnebago Industries as a welder which lasted 45 years. With his mechanical aptitude, Jerry played a vital role in helping engineers refine their ideas, often improving their designs. It was at Winnebago that he met his future wife, Judy.

Jerry was united in marriage to Judy Kumsher at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Britt in 1976. The couple raised their family in Crystal Lake.

Jerry had a passion for working with his hands and enjoyed tinkering. His welding skills were well-known, and he helped design the swinging bridge in Forest City and the steps at Pilot Knob State Park. When he wasn’t busy working, Jerry cherished family trips to South Dakota, visits to amusement parks, and even camping just down the street.

He will be missed for his hard work ethic, his storytelling, and compassionate heart.

He is survived by his wife Judy of Crystal Lake; daughters Shelise (Jeff) Hall of Forest City and Holly (Nic) Moore of Crystal Lake; two grandsons Deegan and Easton; brothers Duane (Paula) Thompson and Dallas (Nancy) Thompson; sisters-in-law Carolyn (Donnie) DeKruif and Jeri (Larry) Peterson, along with many nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son Reed Thompson, grandsons Bryson Thompson and Baby Moore, brothers Jack and Dave Thompson.