Harold Duane Thornton

Harold Duane Thornton, a cherished family man, and a beacon of kindness, passed away on February 15, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on April 6, 1960, in Chico, California, Harold's life was a testament to the power of love, service, and the simple joys of life.

The son of Patricia Macy and Harold "Buck" Thornton, and the beloved grandson of Babe and Jack Bristow and Robert and Bess Thornton. Though they preceded him in death, their values and love shaped the man he became.

A devoted father, Harold's heart was reflected in the lives of his eight children: Angela (Jesse) Lowe, Amber (Jace) Sullivan, Ashley (Brandon) Maple, Jessie Ameral-Thornton, Angelica Ameral-Thornton, Kiley Harden, Katina Scheuerman-Thornton, and Minette Thornton. His love multiplied with the joy of his fourteen grandchildren: Caitlin (Austin) Roberts, Cara Lowe, Coby Lowe, Jacob Fessman, Hunter Fessman, Hannah Fessman, AJ Hamby, Lane Sullivan, Alaina Sullivan, Kaylee Ellison, Brent Maple, Lexie Maple, Brayden Maple, and Maddison Thornton and four great-grandchildren: Blake, Ellie and Nora Roberts, and Violet Lowe, who will grow up hearing stories of their great-grandfather's love and generous spirit.

Harold is preceded in death by his siblings; Cynthia Davis and Brandon Fletcher and survived his brothers, Daniel Macy and Robbie Thornton, and sister, Leah Rogers Smith. Harold touched the lives of many people through the years that would consider him an honorary parent and grandparent and he was cherished by extended family and friends.

Pursuing knowledge in various fields, including security, business, and accounting marked Harold's educational journey. His professional life was diverse, with significant time spent in construction, where he specialized in concrete work and pool installations. He also served in the hospitality industry, tending bar for the family business at Leo's Bar in Manteca, California. However, it was his role as an intake specialist at a homeless shelter in Stockton, California, that Harold found most fulfilling. Serving others brought him immense joy and purpose.

Harold's interests were as varied as his career. He had a passion for collecting roosters, creating beautiful pieces with woodwork and epoxy, and immersing himself in the legal thrillers of John Grisham and Stephen King. His passion was cooking and sharing family recipes with his kids and grandkids. He loved hot rod trucks and motorcycles, was learning to play the guitar, and spent his days watching murder documentaries and western movies. His greatest interest included getting to know his kids and grandkids and sharing their hobbies and interests.

Those who knew Harold would describe him as fun, loving, kind, and faith filled. His presence was comforting, his laughter brought others joy, and his guidance a light. He approached life with a heart full of grace and hands ready to help, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a good man.

Harold Duane Thornton's journey on earth may have ended, but his spirit remains a guiding force for all who were blessed to know him. His story is not one of sorrow but a celebration of a life well-lived, a life that will continue to inspire and influence generations to come. Harold's memory will be cherished, his lessons treasured, and his love felt forevermore.