Submitted by: Dan Rich

Kenneth D. Thornton

May 31, 1927 -- April 17, 2004

South Bend Tribune 4/19/2004

Kenneth D. Thornton of Osborne Road, Lakeville, Ind., died Saturday, April 17, after an extended illness. He was 76 years old. He was born in Lakeville, on May 31, 1927, to Everett and Oma (Berger) Thornton. Kenneth was a 1945 graduate of the former Lakeville High School. Upon graduation, he joined the Navy and served his country until the end of World War II, stationed in San Diego, Calif.

In Lakeville, on Aug. 9, 1947, he married his high school sweetheart, Maribel Garrett. Kenneth was a leader and enjoyed sales, managing several retail stores. He liked helping people and making the sale. He mentored many young men in the area of retail sales. He was a past president of the Lakeville Lions Club, and enjoyed each and every activity -- 4H Fair, Fish Frys, 4th of July Celebrations and Tractor Pulls. He completed Dale Carnegie Courses and management classes at Notre Dame.

Kenneth is survived by his wife of 56 years, Maribel; two daughters, Kathleen (Marlin) Sheffield of South Bend and Kristine (William) Brothers of Noblesville, Ind.; and his grandchildren, Monica and Miranda Brothers, and Lauren and Bryan Sheffield. He is also survived by a sister, Genevieve Ousnamer of Plymouth. His parents and a brother, Harold R. Thornton, preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 20, in Palmer Funeral Home-Lakeville, 314 S. Michigan St., followed by burial at Southlawn Cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to services.

Memorial contributions may be made to Riverbend Cancer Services or to the American Heart Association.