February 9, 2026, after a brief but valiant battle with illness, Terry Thornton, with his family around him and his heart full of love, left this world to share his pride and richness of family with the other angels.

During our 50 years together, Terry worked hard to create a good life for his wife and children and exceeded beyond his dreams. Terry claimed he was the richest man on earth when he looked at his children and grandchildren. Everyone always noticed the pride in his eyes when Terry spoke of his family.

Terry leaves behind his wife, partner and best friend Cathy; the pride of his life his children and grandchildren; daughter Julie Bertoia (Wayne) grandchildren Drew (Marcus), Evan; daughter Jane Bartolo (Bryan) grandchildren Sarah Hiller (Ajdin), Ryan Hiller, Emily Hiller, David Bartolo (Lourine), Megan Sicilia (Alex); son Alex Thornton (Ashley) grandchildren Makayla, Jace, and Madison.

He is also lovingly remembered by his mother-in-law Joyce Knechtel; sister-in-law Susan Spilak (Mark); brother-in-law RJ Knechtel (Kirsten). Nephews Steven and Mike Spilak and their families, Cody Knechtel and his daughter, Robert Rooke and his family. His work family at Premier Fluid Systems in Burlington; and his fur babies Ben and Oliver who never left his side.

Terry was predeceased by his parents Sandra (Jim) Thornton; father-in-law Bob Knechtel; sister-in-law Lori Knechtel.

Special thank you to the Woodstock General Hospital Emergency Department, Victoria Hospital Thoracic Program in London, his palliative care team, with special note to his nurse Sandeep of Saint Elizabeth Health Care for her kind, compassionate and loving care, and Elaine who was always there for Cathy and the fur babies.

Terry requested no service after his cremation as everything that needed to be said had already been expressed through a lifetime of actions.

Love you forever, always together. You are my heart and soul, and they stay with you. Thank you for a great life. Your loving wife, partner and best friend.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Woodstock Hospital Emergency Department, Victoria Hospital Thoracic Program in London or Saint Elizabeth Health Care would be greatly appreciated.