Richard “Rick” A. Thornton, 66, of Galion passed away Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center in Columbus.
Born September 11, 1957 in Mansfield, he was the son of Lawrence and Gladys M. (Sheltz). He married Linda (McElhatten) Thornton on April 12, 2006 and she survives.
He was a graduate of Madison High School in 1976 and was truck driver for 18 years, lastly working for Kurtzman Sanitation. Rick was a member of Westside Baptist Church in Ontario. He was a sports fanatic, following the Browns, Buckeyes and Guardians. Rick enjoyed camping, playing poker and softball and especially enjoyed family gatherings.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by children, Joe (Dana) Thornton of Lexington, Heather (Joel) Parrett of Oakwood, Megan (Jeff) Owens of Mansfield, Jarrod Manley of Galion, Adam (Julie) Thornton of Shelby, Jessica (Joey) O’Brien of Galion and Jordan Thornton of Galion; grandchildren, Lilli, Kylie, Jalynn, Jocelynn, Janae, Ethan, Elaina, Jaxon, Cameron, Cooper, Brooklynn, Trevor, Brooklyn, Jillian, Anthony, Stevie, Brianna and Tyler; two great-grandchildren; sister Lyn Lough of Lexington; brother Ken Sheppard of St. Petersburg, Florida and numerous nieces and nephews including nephew Chris Troupe.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by daughter Stephanie Burgess and sister Pat Troupe.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Westside Baptist Church, 3720 West Fourth Street, Ontario, Ohio 44903 where services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday with Pastor Joe Smith officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Life Wise Academy at Westside Baptist Church, 3720 West Fourth Street, Ontario, Ohio 44903.
Richardson Davis Chapel of Snyder Funeral Homes in Galion is honored to serve the family of Rick Thornton, and condolences may be made to them at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.