David Marion Thornton

David Marion Thornton

David Marion Thornton, 88, of Thayer, Kansas, passed away on November 26, 2023 at his residence with family by his side.

He was born on June 23, 1935 in Weiser, Idaho the son of Everett and Lilly (Dryden) Thornton. David was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He grew up in Thayer and graduated from Thayer High School in 1953.

David was a man who spoke his mind and was not afraid to share his beliefs. He firmly believed that this world is not the final stop and encouraged others to consider their own spiritual journey. His words were often thought-provoking and served as a reminder to live a life that leads to Heaven.

David had a successful career as a Plant Superintendent in Galesburg, a Salesman, and a Rancher. He excelled in his work and was respected by his colleagues and peers.

Outside of work, David had a passion for spending time with his family. He loved traveling with his kids and grandkids, often combining it with his job. Family fishing trips and hikes were regular occurrences, creating lasting memories for all. David also enjoyed hunting, attending farm shows, and chasing cows in his trusty pickup truck, which bore the marks of countless adventures.

He was a past elder of the Thayer Christian Church, member of Farm Bureau and 23 years of faithful and dedicated service with Hidden Haven Church Camp.

David will be deeply missed by his wife of many years, Harriet Thornton, and his children: Karl (Nancy), Sandy (Gary) Wheeler, David Ken (Tammy), and Bruce (Tonja). He is also survived by his daughter-in-law Brenda Thornton, sister Carol Umbarger, 11 grandchildren, Shannon Bogle, Kassie Thornton, Kayla Satterlee. Amber Wheeler, Jared Wheeler. Darren Thornton, Coty Thornton, Luke Thornton, Adam Thornton, Brett Thornton, Tristan Thornton, 26 great-grandchildren, Shayla Hayward, Tyra Bogle, Thor Bogle, Edie Thornton, Zion Satterlee, Nation Satterlee, Risen Satterlee, Gracie Wheeler, Judah Wheeler, Beckham Wheeler, Jaxon Ellsworth, Tim Thornton, Marrissa Thornton, Christoffer Thornton, Bella Thornton, LillyAnna Thornton, Henry Thornton, Charles Thornton, Hazel Thornton, Jacob Thornton, Maci Thornton, Brextyn Thornton, Bryor Thornton, Brinkly Thornton, Truit Thornton, and Rylenn Thornton, 1 great-great granddaughter, Saylor Hayward.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Lilly Thornton, his son Chris Thornton, and his siblings Bill, Richard, Johnnie, Glen Thornton and Betty Holtzman.

A celebration of David's life will be held on December 2nd, 2023, at 10:30 AM at Thayer Christian Church. A visitation will take place on December 1st, 2023, from 5-7 PM, also at Thayer Christian Church. Contributions in David's memory can be made to Thayer Christian Church or Hidden Haven Church Camp.

The Wickham Family Funeral Home in Chanute, Kansas, is assisting the family with the arrangements.

David Marion Thornton will be remembered as a loving family man, a dedicated professional, and a faithful servant of God. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the memories he created.