Charles Eugene Thompson, of Louisburg, Kansas, passed away June 29, 2016.
Gene graduated from Clinton High School and earned a bachelor of science degree in agriculture from the University of Missouri – Columbia. Upon graduating from college, he worked for the Missouri Department of Agriculture, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and MFA where he served as director of market research. Economic development was his most fulfilling profession. He worked for the Missouri municipalities of Clinton, St. Charles, Wentzville and Raymore. Gene’s dedication and commitment improved the lives of the people living in the communities where he worked. Gene always was a statesman, and brought a high level of dedication and professionalism to economic development.
Gene was a member of the American Economic Development Council, Southern Industrial Development Council, Missouri Industrial Development Council; served as secretary of the Missouri Community Development Society, and Governor’s Advisory Council on Agriculture; and was president of the Missouri Horse and Mule Council.
Gene loved all animals, especially American Saddlebreds. He was most proud of his five-gaited stallion, Premier’s Bourbon Genius, who sired the Broodmare Hall of Fame member, Bourbon ‘N Coke. Bourbon ‘N Coke produced CH Jean Margaret, Intoxicating Conversation and the spectacular CH One For The Road (WGC, WCC, WC).
Later, through his wife, Cynthia, Gene developed an interest in Hackney ponies. Gene and Cynthia showed Hackney ponies out of Gib Marcucci’s Stables, including two world champions, Sultan’s Blue Rain and Swing Out Sister.
Gene is survived by his wife, Cynthia Gill Thompson, of Louisburg, Kansas; an aunt, Alice Hall; a nephew, Leonard (Carol) Hall; and their daughter, Becky, all of Sedalia. Private services.
-- via Dignity Memorial