Neil O. "Zep" Thompson, 83, of Owatonna, died Thursday, March 4, 2021 at Homestead Hospice House. He was born March 11, 1937 in Frost the son of Theodore and Agnes (Mondahl) Thompson. Neil graduated from Frost High School in 1955. He served in the US Navy from 1955-57. During his service he was the assistant to the Chaplain aboard the USS Bremerton. On June 29, 1958 he married Gloria Bratsch in Wells. The couple lived in Blue Earth and Sherburne before moving to Owatonna. Neil worked as a lineman for Eckels Telephone Co. and was a salesman for Kirby vacuums and Fuller Brush before starting his career with Zep Manufacturing. His career with Zep brought the family to Owatonna in 1966. Neil retired from Zep after more than 41 years as a salesman with the company. Neil was a member of The VFW and American Legion and a former member of the Eagle's and Elk's. He was an avid sports fan, enjoyed bowling and playing pool. He loved to golf and was a member of the Blooming Prairie Country Club. He is survived by his wife, Gloria Thompson of Owatonna; daughters, Sheila (and Bob) Pieper of Port Charlotte, FL, Sherry (and Tim) Fritz of Madison Lake; six grandchildren; three great grandchildren; sister, Joanne Oswald of Frost; brothers, Arden (and Jeanette) Thompson of Bena, Ronnie Thompson of Frost and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister and two brothers. Memorial services will be held at a later date.