Gene Thornton

Gene Thornton passed away Dec. 12 in Fort Collins surrounded by loving family. This native son of Wyoming was born in Casper in 1925 to Leonard and Grace Thornton and was raised in Thermopolis. Gene attended his senior year at Trinity High School in New York City. This tall, dignified man had a wonderful sense of humor and courage beyond measure. His love and dedication to his family was constant. Gene served in the Army Air Corp during World War II. He attended Aggies CSU and met Betty Copeland at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, where they were married in 1949. Gene graduated from the University of Wyoming. He was a teacher and a social worker, moving from St. Louis, Mo., to Colorado Springs. During retirement Gene and Betty were full-time RVers for six years and returned to Fort Collins, where they enjoyed time with family and an active social life. Gene is survived by Betty, his loving wife of 58 years; his daughters, Laurie Brown and Harriet Anderson; their spouses, David Brown and Michael Anderson; his granddaughters, Kelsey and Sarah Anderson; and his brother and sister-in-law, Francis and Jimmie Thornton. He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Ted and John Thornton; and a sister, Lillian Thornton. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Monday at Grandview Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church. Reception following the service. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family asks that contributions be made to: Elderhaus Adult Day Programs, 605 S. Shields St., Fort Collins, CO 80521.