Although born June 22, 1946, in Tacoma, Washington to Raymond and Pearl Thomson, Gary was raised in Sanger, California. He attended Fresno City College and enlisted in the United States Army in 1967. After his military service, he returned home to help with his father's business.
Gary was known for his kindness, quiet strength, and gentle spirit. A lifelong golfer, and later an avid trap shooter, he formed many long-lasting friendships through the Sunnyside Country Club and the Kingsburg Gun Club.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 38 years, Marian Dauphin Thomson, and his sisters Janice Thomson Nilmeier (Keith) and Laurie Thomson Bettencourt (Darryl) and their children and grandchildren. He is also survived by his stepchildren Jason Baldwin (Paula) and Casey Baldwin O'Rourke (Kevin), and his grandchildren Liam Baldwin, Garrett Baldwin, and Mallie Margaret O'Rourke.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary's honor may be made to Hinds Hospice LifeCare, The Wounded Warrior Project, and Miss Winkle's Pet Adoption Center by following the links listed below.
A graveside service for Gary will be held on February 3, 2026, at 10:00 am at Belmont Memorial Park, located at 201 N Teilman Avenue, Fresno, California, 93706. A Celebration of Life will be taking place at Crosspointe Church's Fellowship Hall, located at 2518 S McCall Avenue, Sanger, California, 93657, following the service. All who knew and loved Gary are welcomed to attend.