October 21, 1954 - July 25, 2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Bruce Edward Thornton at the age of 65, on July 25th, 2020, in Campbell River. He was a beloved husband, father, and friend.
He is survived by his loving wife and soul mate of 45 years, Debbie, sons Derek and Ryan (Lacy), his grandchildren - Olivia, Layla, Brody, Mariah, Emaleigh and Hayden, sister Jo-Anne (Bob) Windsor, brother Perry (Tammy) Thornton, sister-in-law Darlene Hoyt (Greg Dougan) and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Irene and Ivan Thornton.
Bruce was born in Duncan, BC on October 21, 1954. In 1978 he and Debbie moved to Campbell River where he worked all up and down the coast in the logging industry.
In later years he became a very skilled cabinet maker. Bruce led an active and adventurous life. He enjoyed many successful hunting and fishing trips over the years and spent several post-retirement winters in the California sun.
His favourite place of all though was the cabin at Eagle's Cove where he loved to putter, play with his grandchildren, fish, and beach comb. His dogs Sophie and Rosie were his constant companions.
Bruce will be remembered for his sense of humour, his legendary fishing, hunting, and logging stories, his love for helping others, and especially his strong work ethic. He was an incredible role model and mentor for his family, his friends and those who worked for him over his long career. His favourite quote "Life is a series of adventures" sums up his positive outlook on life.
Bruce's family would like to especially thank the nurses and doctors in Cancer Care at the hospital for their compassion and caring over the past three years. It was a long and difficult journey, but thankfully now he is at peace.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be most appreciated.