Obituary

Gary Fred Thomson, a charismatic force of nature with a heart as big as his presence, passed away peacefully at Vivante Memory Care in Newport Beach on January 4, 2023.  Known to many as “Gigante Verde” from his YPO days and “Big Timber” a term of endearment from his time with Indian Guides.  Gary had a rare gift — he made everyone around him feel seen, appreciated, and welcome.

Born to Fred and Ina Thomson on October 10, 1941, Gary grew up in Southern California and later attended the University of Colorado Boulder, where he met his first wife, Sara Figi. Tall, strong, and full of energy, Gary had been a wrestler and football player in high school — his 6’6” frame made him an imposing presence on the field and, occasionally, in the eyes of his kids too. But beneath the stature was a gentle giant with a quick wit, a soft heart, and a disarming sense of humor.

As a kid, Gary played the accordion in a band and carried an unlikely but enduring passion for yodeling, which he’d happily demonstrate with little prompting. A fabulous skier with an effortless style, Gary’s favorite run was Ruthie’s on Aspen Mountain.

After college, Gary returned to California and joined the family business, Inland Lumber Company, a successful wholesale lumber company in Upland, California. It was during this chapter of his life that he became a member of YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization) where he formed a deep network of friendships and shared ideas with like-minded peers. His YPO connections and friendships, rooted in his Southern California life, were lifelong treasures.

Following the sale of Inland Lumber, Gary moved the family to Aspen — a place dear to the Thomsons since the 1960s. Initially drawn by a job opportunity to help develop the proposed Little Annie’s ski area (which never materialized), Aspen still became a beloved chapter of his life. The move embodied Gary’s adventurous spirit and his love for skiing, mountains, and community. He later returned part-time to Newport Beach to serve as Wrestling Commissioner for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics— an experience that led to meeting Toni Pearsall, who would become his second wife. His Olympic chapter was followed by another high-stakes adventure: becoming President of the Eagle Challenge Syndicate during the 1986 America’s Cup in Perth, Australia.

After years of running intense sports organizations, Gary greatest joy of his life arrived. After a long and emotional IVF journey, Cooper Thomson was born at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach. He was a miracle — a true gift — and Gary embraced fatherhood with renewed energy and love. Cooper would go on to be a great athlete, a sharp mind, and a source of immense pride.

Soon after Cooper’s birth, the family moved to Maui, where Gary dabbled in online currency trading and, in true Gary fashion, took on a side job selling timeshares — becoming the most senior and most trusted closer in the history of the property. He loved it, because it allowed him to do what he did best: connect with people. He was genuine, funny, honest, and effortlessly charismatic.

As Cooper approached school age, the family considered a return to mountain life — exploring Park City, Sun Valley, and Aspen — but ultimately decided to move back to Newport Beach. Surrounded by lifelong friends, the familiar comforts of home, and his beloved Big Canyon Country Club, Gary rekindled his love of golf and continued currency trading.

His sense of humor remained razor sharp – best seen in his choice of vehicles: a massive Humvee parked next to a tiny Mini Cooper with the custom license plate “HUMMET.” Classic Gary – always playing with contrast and never taking himself too seriously.

Gary was a proud father to three children — Scott (“Scooter”), Anna, and Cooper — each of whom carries forward his spirit in different ways. He is also survived by his brother, Tom Thomson, and sister-in-law Carol. Gary and Tom shared a relationship full of the nuance only brothers understand — but through it all, they loved each other deeply and helped their families grow closer, together.

One of the most enduring friendships of Gary’s life was with Forest E. Olson — a trusted friend and confidant, older in age but perfectly matched in wisdom, humor, and loyalty. The Olson family walked beside the Thomsons through the best of times and the hardest of times. Gary would have wanted nothing more than to pay homage to Forest and his family.

Gary’s legacy is etched in the laughter of friends, the memories of mountain days and ocean nights, and the magnetic way he made people feel good just by being around him. With his memory diminished, he made the call in his own quiet way —
Peace out.

We miss him dearly.