William Neil Thornton

1928 - 2022

William Neil Thornton, age 94, of Tawas City, passed away on Oct. 20, 2022.
Neil was born on March 29, 1928 in Tawas City to the late Percy and Edith (Sawyer) Thornton. He was raised in Tawas City and graduated from Tawas Area High School.
Neil served in the United States Army during the Korean War as a Stars and Stripes War Correspondent and Photographer. He was awarded the Korean War Service Medal, United Nations Korea Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Army Commendation Medal.
Neil was the editor and co-owner of The Tawas Herald, as well as the editor and photographer for The Iosco News Herald. He married Cathy (Hawn) Thornton on July 11, 1970 and the two spent 43 years together. In retirement Neil and Cathy co-owned The Booknook in East Tawas for many years.
Neil authored several books on local history, most of which he printed himself in his workshop. He was a member of the VFW, Tawas City Charter Commission, and volunteered at the Iosco County Historical Museum for several years. He enjoyed printing, photography, driving his Model A Ford, and being the town historian.
Neil is survived by his children, Gary (Holly) Thornton of Tawas City, and Betsy (Chuck) Thornton-Bell of Ellicott City, Md.; seven grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife, Cathy Thornton; brother, Nelson E. Thornton; and grandson, Andrew Thornton.
Per his wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be an interment of Neil in Memory Garden Cemetery in Tawas City at a later date. You may leave an online condolence at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.