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Nicholas Thornton Obituary
NICHOLAS THORNTON
AGE: 86 PARLIN
Deacon Nicholas J. Thornton, 86, of Parlin passed away quietly on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2008.
He was born in the Bronx, to Hannah and Patrick Thornton.
Nicholas attended LaSalle Academy and Manhattan College, where he obtained a degree in business. During his college years he excelled in the sports of basketball and baseball. He played minor league baseball before en listing in the Army in 1942 rising to the rank of First Lieutenant. He served his country overseas during WWII as a bombardier receiving the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters. Upon discharge from the service he entered New York University where he obtained his MBA.
In 1949, Nicholas married Mary Foran settling in Old Bridge in 1956. He was employed by Wakefern Food Corp. for 25 years as transportation manager until his retirement in 1982.
In 1984, Nicholas J. Thornton was ordained as a Deacon in the Diocese of Metuchen and began serving his beloved ministry at St. Bernadette R.C. Church, Parlin where he remained until his retirement at the age of 80. he was a member of Knights of Columbus at St. Bernadette Council 8478.
Nicholas J. Thornton's beloved wife of 42 years passed away in 1991. His sister, Anna McKee died in 1999.
He is survived by three children, Maureen Thornton-Drost of Sayreville, Patrick J. Thornton and his wife, Loretta of Berkley Heights, and Marian Dalla Valle and her husband, Mario of Virginia. In addition he leaves six grandchildren, Nicole Martin and her husband Kyle, Jeffrey Thornton, Bethaney Houser, Michael, Allison, and Maryanne Dalla Valle, and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 8:45 a.m. Monday, from The Gundrum Service "Home For Funerals" 237 Bordentown Ave., South Amboy, followed by a 9:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Bernadette Church, Parlin. Interment will follow at St. Gertrude Cemetery, Colonia. Visitation will be from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. and 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.
Nicholas J. Thornton was truly an honorable man who loved God, his country and his family. He will be deeply missed.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nicholas Thornton
6 Entries
Deb Kieselowsky
October 20, 2008
Just this evening I learned the sad news of Nick’s passing last week. Growing up in St. Bernadette’s Church and knowing Nick throughout the years brings back memories of a kind man who always had a great, and sometimes dry, sense of humor. He usually had a story to tell you. His voice was a friendly one, and a source of encouragement for me. I enjoyed listening to him and getting that warm and welcoming handshake hello. He smiled even through the pain he endured. I send my deepest sympathy to his children and their families. He will indeed be missed. Rest in peace, Nick! Farewell for now...
Jackie McCoy
October 18, 2008
Nick was a wonderful person & neighbor. He will not be forgotton. God bless him & his family.
Sincerely,
Keith Billetz
October 18, 2008
Deacon Thornton was a very honorable, kind, and nice gentleman. He was one of the reasons we became members of St. Bernadette's church. Our deepest condolences to your family. The Billetz Family - Andy, Andrew and Keith
Andrew Szaroleta
October 18, 2008
Deacon Nick was a good friend and confidant, who fulfilled his diaconate ministry with love and dedicaton during my pastorate at St. Bernadette's, 1986-93. My deep sympathy to his family. Msgr. Andrew L. Szaroleta
fjohn reinke (MC1968)
October 18, 2008
The Manhattan College alumni community shares the grief, and is now praying for our fellow alumni and the family at this time. The Alumni Office has been informed. As well as the Jasper Jottings community that I personally can reach. We are all a little poorer now. "No man is an island, entire of itself … any man’s death diminishes me". We are sorry for your loss.
Debbie & Brian Stolte
October 17, 2008
My husband & I offer our sympathy. We were parishoners of St. Bernadette's for many years before moving to the other side of Main Street and switched to Our Lady of Vctories. He was a wonderful man & will be missed. God bless him in heaven!
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