Michael Patrick Gimpl

Michael P. Gimpl, 79, of Willmar, died Monday, March 13th at St. Cloud Hospital. His memorial service will be at 11:00 am, Friday, May 19th at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar with interment in the church cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to his service. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar. www.hafh.org

Michael Patrick Gimpl was born on April 9, 1943, to Joseph and Margaret (Krantz) Gimpl on the family farm near Hinckley. He attended school in Hinckley where he enjoyed playing baseball, basketball and football. Mike graduated from Hinckley High School in 1961. He continued his education at St. Cloud State University where he received his undergraduate and masters. On September 11, 1965, Mike was united in marriage to Bonnie Avelsgaard at Cathedral of St. Mary in St. Cloud. They moved to Radford, VA, where Mike began teaching at a college. Mike and Bonnie moved to Miami, where Mike continued his education at the University of Miami where he received his PhD in Neuropsychology. After his schooling, they moved to Iowa City before making their home in Willmar. Mike worked at the Willmar State Hospital and enjoyed helping the youth with addiction issues. Mike had a passion for golf and for gardening. He was a member of Eagle Creek Golf Course and enjoyed planting flowers at the golf course with Bonnie. They also enjoyed cooking and were known to many as “gourmet cooks.” New recipes were always welcomed and they would often change them to suit their tastes and desires. Friends and family enjoyed receiving Christmas letters from Mike and Bonnie, which were written in their cat's perspective. He was a loving husband, brother and friend.

Mike is survived by his brothers: Jerry Gimpl of Mesa, AZ, and Dave Gimpl of Hinckley and nieces, nephews and other family.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie, parents, sister-in-law, Joan Gimpl and grand-niece.

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