Larry Thompson
May 30, 1935 ~ February 23, 2025
Born in:
Enderlin, North Dakota
Resided in:
Dilworth, Minnesota
Larry Neil Thompson, age 89 passed away on February 23, 2025, at his home in Dilworth, Minnesota.
Larry was born on May 30, 1935 in Enderlin, ND to parents Gustav and Ruth (Anderson) Thompson.
During childhood, Larry and his family moved frequently as his father managed many creameries throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, and Montana. While attending High School in Valley City, ND, Larry began his career in the Hardware business by taking a job at the local Gambles. He continued to work there after graduation, before joining the Army in 1955.
After completing his Army service, Larry went back to work for Gambles in Valley City until taking a position with the corporate office out of Minneapolis, MN. He spent the next several years traveling to remodel and set up new company stores. In 1968, after deciding he wanted his own store, he purchased Gambles Hardware in Carrington, ND. This is where he first met Lucille, his wife of 55 years.
Together, Larry and Lucille owned and operated the store for the next 34 years, first as Gambles then later as True Value Hardware. Larry always took great pride in keeping his store clean, organized, and fully stocked with a wide variety of inventory. He was well liked by the community because of his kindness and commitment to customer service.
After selling the Hardware store in 2002, Larry and Lucille retired and moved to Dilworth, MN to be closer to their children and grandchildren. They enjoyed 23 wonderful years of retirement together.
Larry is survived by his wife, Lucille (Page) Thompson, three children: Roger Thompson, Laurie (Scott) Handegard, and Ron (Shannon) Thompson, five grandchildren: Laura Thompson, Nicole Thompson, Sean Thompson, Alivia Handegard, and Natalie Handegard, three brothers: Dale (Hannah), Duane, Barton, one sister: Audrey, and many in-laws, nieces and nephews.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers: Bob, Jim and Kent, four sisters-in-law: Eleanor, Carol, Betty, Myrna, and one brother-in-law: Ray Klaudt.
At his request, no service is planned. A private family burial will be planned at the Carrington Cemetery at a later date.
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I was fortunate enough to have Larry as a Brother-in Law, a boss, and a good friend. His demeanor was always that of a quiet and respectful person. Never did I hear him raise his voice or use profanity. Although his politics I knew, he never debated in harsh discourse. He was always proud of family and his Love for Lucille was evident. The pride they took in their store, their home, children, and Grandchildren, only confirms a match that was meant to be. You did a good job Lucille, relish the memories!
LaRae Jepson granddaughter of James “Jim” Roger Thompson 🙏🏻
To the best dad ever, you will be missed. I can’t believe life goes on without you.
“Our Father’s Garden” – (Unknown)
Our father kept a garden
A garden of the heart
He planted all the good things
That gave our lives their start
He turned us to the sunshine
And encouraged us to dream
Fostering and nurturing
The seeds of self-esteem
And when the winds and rain came
He protected us enough
But not too much because he knew
We would stand up strong and tough
His constant good example
Always taught us right from wrong
Markers for our pathway that will last a lifetime long
We are our father’s garden
We are his legacy
Thank You Dad, we love you
My father in law Robert Heringer was Larry’s best customer at Gambles . Bob bought everything he needed there. Larry was a kind and gentle man When he retired Main street Carrington went down. hill .!!