DAVID (DAVE) JAMES THORNTON

David James Thornton, 71, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2010.
Dave was born March 23, 1939 in Rainy River, Ont. to the late George and Grace Thornton.
Dave and his parents later moved to Kenora, Ont., where he grew up.
Dave married his “American Beauty,” Eva Ann Hengemuehler, on Aug. 29, 1964 in Duluth, Mn.
Dave cherished time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends. When his family was young, every moment of summer vacation and many weekends were filled with family activities.
Dave organized this time to bring his family closer together. Camping, fishing, canoe trips, hunting, and family road trips were always on the agenda.
When his own children were grown, he became a wooden toy-maker. His projects brought smiles to many children in town. His attention to detail and ability to organize was reflected in everything he did.
Dave obtained a Bachelor of Science and Education at the University of Manitoba. He further went on to obtain a Type ‘A’ Specialist in mathematics.
Dave moved to Fort Frances, Ont. in 1965 to teach at the high school. He taught mainly mathematics for 32 years until retirement.
During his teaching career, he coached a curling team to the Dominion high school finals. He also was a charter member of the Muskie Touchdown Club.
 He volunteered his time for numerous school-related activities. He enjoyed spending time with youth, encouraging and helping them reach their full potential.
Dave was a Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus and a member of the 4th Degree. He enjoyed the International K of C “Camporees” and the brotherhood of the Knights.
Dave was active in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church community. He served as co-chairman for the Marriage Encounter program, and was an instructor of the Engaged Couple program for 15 years.
He also was very involved in the Pro-Life organization and participated in the hospital auxiliary.
Dave is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Eva; his sons, Kevin (Annette) Thornton and their children, Marques, Brook, Megan, and Kyle, of Ashland, Wis. and Kurt (Sheri) Thornton and their children, Austin, Emma, and Alexander, of Surrey, B.C.; and daughter, Kim Thornton and her children, Audrionna, Darian, and Mitchell, of Hope, B.C.
He also was great-grandpa to Caleb of Hope, B.C.
Dave also is survived by his brother-in-law, Edward Hengemuehler; and aunts, Harriet Smith and Thelma Creighton.
Dave was predeceased by his parents, George and Grace Thornton; and in-laws, Edward and Cleone Hengemuehler.
A funeral mass to celebrate Dave’s life will be held Monday, Sept. 20, 2010 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Fort Frances, officiated by Fr. Francis Pudicherry.
The pallbearers will be Dino D’Agostini, Jacques Fafard, Edward McLeod, Jack Allen, Paul Sveinson, Luke Schill, Robert Devos, and Donald Grant.
If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations may be directed to the Fort Frances Community Chest c/o Green Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com
Thank you, Dave, Dad, and Grandpa for all you have been and done for your family, friends, and community. You will be greatly missed.