Jerry L. Thompkins, 65

Jerry L. Thompkins died suddenly at his home in Bigfork on Nov. 16, 2005, with his wife at his side. He was 65.

Jerry was born July 9, 1940, in Grants Pass, Ore., the oldest of four boys. He grew up at Lake Tahoe, Calif., and developed his life-long passion for hunting and fishing while living there.

In 1959, he married Nona Coffey and they had two sons.

Jerry graduated from San Jose State University and worked for a time in the insurance and securities business.

In 1972, he married the love of his life, Carol, and returned to Lake Tahoe. Finding the area too crowded, they moved to West Yellowstone where they owned and operated several businesses.

In 1981, Jerry and Carol moved to Bigfork and have resided there ever since. Jerry owned and operated a charter fishing lodge in Petersburg, Alaska, for the past 10 years until his death.

Jerry was known for his big heart and unfailing trust in people. He was passionate about his family and his fishing. He loved going to the auction and finding the good deals.

Jerry leaves his wife of 33 years, Carol; sons, Rodney of Kalispell, Bradley of Modesto, Calif., and Dustin of Bozeman; and a stepson, Richard Rumley from Eden Prairie, Minn. Survivors also include his mother, Fran; two brothers, Dennis and Andrew; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Tiffani, Sarah, Autumn, Allen and Heidi; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gene, and his brother, Greg.

Cremation has taken place and there are no services planned at this time.

His ashes will be scattered at his favorite place, Alaska, in the spring.