Submitted by: Dan Rich
Nov. 20, 1951 -- Oct. 22, 2006
South Bend Tribune 10/26/2006
John Patrick Thornton, 54, of South
Bend, passed away at 8:40 a.m. Sunday, October 22, at the Hospice
House, South Bend. John was the first child born to Jeanette (Bohdan)
and the late William A. Thornton on November 20, 1951, in
Washington, D.C. John grew up in Fort Wayne and Mishawaka, he
graduated from Marian High School in 1970 and attended Ball State
University. John "Thunder" Thornton, #77, helped
establish the winning tradition of Marian High football as a
legendary defensive tackle.
Family survivors are his mother, Jeanette of
Mishawaka, sister, Mary McKnight of Creston, IL, brother,
David, and sister, Ann, both of Mishawaka, and a brother, James
of Tampa, FL. John was a genuine free spirit who made a conscious
decision to take the path less traveled down the road of life.
John worked and lived in Oakland, CA, Madison, WI, and New York
City. His work experiences included salesman, truck driver, auto
worker, high school football coach, nurse's aide, fundraiser, and
host of a TV fishing program. John measured success not by
material wealth but by his numerous good friendships. A published
poet, John maintained a keen interest in literature and music and
shared that knowledge with those close to him. Many an
interesting evening was spent in companionship and stimulating
conversation. He cared about social justice, appreciated nature,
was a fishing enthusiast and a lifelong Red Sox fan. John's
positive attitude and Irish spirit to endure and fight on during
years of serious health problems has been an inspiration. John
was a special person whose intelligence, wit and unique
perspective on life will be missed. Rest in peace, there will be
no more pain and suffering.
Family and friends may visit on Friday,
October 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Hahn Funeral Home,
505 W. 8th Street, Mishawaka. Memorial service will be held at
8:00 p.m. in the funeral home, with Rev. Ed Ruetz officiating.
Many thanks to John's loyal friends and the Marian High School
family, past and present. Contributions may be made to the John
"Thunder" Thornton Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 1422,
Mishawaka, IN 46545.