“Thorny”
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Harold Thornton, who died at home the evening of October 24th with his family by his side. He was tired from his journey with cancer and wanted to go “Home”.
He will be greatly missed by his wife, Betty; daughter Lisa (Keith) West and their children, Brandon, Amanda, and Tiana; daughter Lorna; and son Jim (Leanne) and their sons, Jacob and Luke. He is also survived by his brother Mervin (Jean); Aunt Thelma Kells, Aunt Jeannie Thornton; and by Betty’s siblings, Mary (Dennis) Kirwan, Bill (Shirley) Logan, Kathleen Stata, Peg Frey, and Patty Sloan. He will also be missed by his 15 nieces and nephews, and by his many cousins and friends.
Harold joined the RCAF at the age of 18, and served 20 years as an Aircraft Electrician before retiring. The family moved back to Courtenay, where he began a second career as a Parts Clerk at Seale and Thompson, which became Brian McLean’s Chev Olds. He retired at the age of 60, and then drove part time for Budget Car Rental.
He volunteered as a Kiwanis member, as a driver of the Masonic Cancer Van, and as a longtime member of St. George’s United Church.
In his 50s, he took up wood turning and it became his passion. Many hours were spent in his shop creating works of art that he gave away to friends, family and charities.
He will be remembered as a hardworking, courteous man, known for his quick wit and great sense of humour which he kept until the end.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Tancon, Nurse Catherine, Dr. Tinmouth and the health-care workers and volunteers who gave such kind care to Thorny and made his journey with cancer less stressful.
Please honour our wishes for no flowers and donations. Instead, in his memory, we encourage you to be kind to one another and to follow the “Golden Rule”.
A Memorial and Celebration Service will be held on Friday, November 2nd at 2:30 at St. George’s United Church, with Rev. Peggy Jensen officiating.