Don Joseph Thornton

Don was born on June 16, 1937 in Omaha, NE to Lyman F. and Claira M. Thornton. At the age of 12 years old he declared his love to Patricia Louise Hallett. They married on August 27, 1955. Don worked as a truck driver for 42 years, and while he was proud to be a trucker, he was even more proud of his family.

Don and Pat raised four sons, Don Jr., Tim, Gary, and John, and one daughter, Angela. Over the years, the family grew to include many grandchildren and then eventually several great grandchildren. Don taught this family to take care of each other. To be loyal, dependable, and trusting to each other. He served as provider, protector, advisor, hero and friend to those in his family as well as many others. He built a legacy that his friends and family will honor for generations to come.

Don had a tough demeanor, and he loved to give people a hard time, but his big personality could only be matched by his big heart. His quick wit and endless stories will be missed.

Don was preceded in death by his father, Lyman, his mother, Claira, and his son, Gary F. Thornton. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, his four children, Don Jr (Teresa), Tim (Kelly), Angela, and John (Miranda), his grandkids, Dustin (Mindy), Jeanine (Randy), Justin (Jenna), Adam (Jessica), Brandon (Alicia), Jenna (Steve), Noah, Olivia, Tanner, and Emma, his great-children, Ashley, Kayla, Hannah, Megan, Kyla, Cole, Kara, Abigail, Riley, and Benjamin.

Funeral Services will be held at the Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery at 10940 E Chandler Heights Rd in Chandler, Arizona. The viewing is Sunday March 28th from 5 to 7pm with a Rosary to follow from 7:15 to 9pm. Services will be Monday March 29th at 10:00am followed by a military burial at the graveside. A luncheon will be held after at 1pm at the American Legion located at 2240 W Chandler Blvd in Chandler, Arizona. In lieu of flowers Don has asked that donations be made to St. Jude’s hospital or the Shriner’s Hospital. Thank you.