Michael Timothy Thornton, 72, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3rd, 2015 at his residence in Manteca. Michael was born on November 26, 1942 in Turlock. He was a resident of Manteca for over 50 years.
   Michael Thornton is survived by his wife of 38 years, Janet Thornton of Manteca; children, Michael Thornton II and wife Deana Thornton of Manteca, and Shelly Thornton-Simpson of Salida; grandchildren, Alyssa Ramirez (Thornton) and husband Nicholas Ramirez of Mission Viejo, Zackery Simpson of Salida, Timothy Thornton of Manteca, and Jacob Simpson of Salida.
   Michael was an honorable man who proudly served in the United States Air Force. After serving his country, Michael worked for the Western/Union Pacific Railroad for 25 years until he retired in 1996. Michael was known for his passion of the outdoors. He was a true outdoorsman, who loved hunting, fishing and camping. Michael enjoyed taking care of stray animals, learning about history, traveling all over the world with his family, and especially spending time with his grandchildren.
    PL Fry & Son Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Thornton family.  Visitation will be open to the public on Friday, January 9th from 3p.m. to 5p.m. at P.L. & Fry Son Chapel, 290 N. Union Road, Manteca. Services had will be private.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Manteca Historical Society,  P.O. Box 907, Manteca, CA 95336.  An online guestbook is available at www. plfryandson.com.


Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Wednesday, January 7, 2015