Service Details
Services celebrating Jim’s life will be held at Bethania Lutheran Church, 4120 Wright Avenue, Racine on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 11:00AM. Visitation will be at church on Saturday from 10:00AM until the time of service.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in Jim’s name to Bethania Lutheran Church.
James Roy Thornton, age 64, passed away at Aurora Medical Center – Mount Pleasant on Sunday, December 1, 2024 surrounded by family.
Jim was born in Racine to Elmer and Gloria (nee: Evenson) Thornton on May 7, 1960. He was employed by numerous companies in the area, including Goldblatt’s Tire Center, Ganton Technology and Andis Company. On January 19, 2018 Jim was united in marriage with Kathy Hellesen. Among his interests, Jim loved hunting, fishing and being in the beauty of the woods; was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers; going on long car rides; listening to Pink Floyd; learned to love animals; enjoyed eating, especially when Kathy would let him “splurge”; enjoyed his quiet time in prayer with Kathy; and loved his family.
Surviving are his wife, Kathy; stepdaughters, Valerie (Ryne) Sanchez and LeAnn Lopez; step granddaughter, Winter Sanchez; sisters, Sue (Bob) Williams and Jacci (Ed) Young; twin brother, Mark (Edie) Thornton; sisters-in-law, Karen Jacob and Lori Branthoover; brother-in-law, Timothy (Gail) Hellesen; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Gloria; brother, Tom Thornton; mother-in-law, Marylin Heegeman; father-in law, William Hellesen and stepmother-in-law, Helene Hellesen; and his beloved cat, Oreo.
The family offers special thanks to the staff of Aurora Medical Center ICU for their love and compassion during this difficult time.
Barbara Litz says
Mark,
So very sorry for your loss. May all the memories keep you strong during this difficult time. My prayers are with you and your family.