CRESCO — Eugene “Gene” Scott Thorne, 64, of Cresco, died peacefully September 2, 2026, at The Highlands in Decorah surrounded by loved ones.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 9, at First Congregational Church, 130 3rd Ave. E. in Cresco, with Pastor Tim Sir officiating.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 8, at Schmelzer Funeral Home in Cresco and again for one hour before Wednesday’s service at the church. Burial will take place at a later date at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, Minnesota.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Gene’s family.
Gene was born February 17, 1962, in New Hampton, the son of Clarence and Patricia (Bremer) Thorne.
He grew up in Northeast Iowa and graduated from New Hampton High School in 1980. Following high school, Gene enlisted in the military, beginning a period of service to his country that remained an important part of his life story.
His eventual burial at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery will provide a lasting recognition of that service.
Gene later made his home in Cresco, becoming part of the Howard County community and building a life surrounded by family and those important to him.
Those who knew Gene will remember the relationships and memories created over his 64 years, from his New Hampton roots and military service to the years he spent calling Cresco home.
His final days were spent at The Highlands in Decorah, where he was surrounded by the people he loved.
Schmelzer Funeral Home in Cresco is caring for Gene’s family. For complete obituary information and condolences, please click here.
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