Richard Neal Thompson, 76, of Alexandria, passed away unexpectedly in Gilbert, Arizona on February 11, 2009.  Funeral services for Richard were held on Monday, February 16, 2009 at 11:00 a.m., at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Clarissa with Pastor Melissa Ehrhardt officiating.  Interment was at Zion Cemetery in Clarissa.  Casket Bearers were Ryan and Randy Thompson, Dustin, Devin and Drew Pavlacky, Jason Kempel, and David Heim.  Honorary Casket Bearers were Mitchell, Tyler, Daniel and Jonathan Thompson.

Richard was born November 23, 1932, in Minneapolis to William & Vera (Dorn) Thompson.  He married Verneil Meiners August 13, 1951 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Clarissa.  Richard worked at the Armours and Ford Plant in Minneapolis, the Clarissa Creamery, 35 years at Land O’ Lakes in Browerville and farmed for 38 years in Clarissa.  Richard and Verneil moved to Osakis in 2000 and then to Alexandria in 2008.  He was a musician for 52 years in various bands including the Alex Stage Band.  Richard retired in 1989 and was a member of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church; Musician’s Organization and enjoyed playing golf. 

Richard is survived by his wife Verneil of Alexandria, children:  Gary (Barb) Thompson, Gail (Butch) Pavlacky, Gwen (Marty) Johanson, Gregg (Pam) Thompson, Glenda (Doug) Schindler, Grant Thompson, William (Lisa) Thompson, 23 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Donna Murphy and Joyce Carrick, infant daughter Wendy, infant son Wade, great grandson Maxx and great granddaughter Joely Joy.