Harold Thorington

Harold E. Thorington, age 88, of Gladwin, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 3, 2025. Born on April 19, 1936, to John and Edna (Fries) Thorington in Gladwin, Harold was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

In 1958, Harold married Mary Jane Baldys, the love of his life, and together they built a world filled with love, laughter, and unwavering strength. Their bond was one of deep devotion, carrying them through life’s greatest joys and its most heartbreaking trials. Though their years together were filled with warmth and cherished memories, they also endured the unthinkable—laying to rest all four of their children, each loss carving an immeasurable space in their hearts. Even in their sorrow, Harold and Mary Jane carried on with quiet dignity, holding each other up and finding solace in faith, family, and the legacy their children left behind.

After the passing of their youngest daughter, Diane, they became the legal guardians of their granddaughter, Nellie, raising her with the same love and dedication they had given their own children. Despite the grief that shadowed their later years, Harold and Mary Jane never let sorrow define them. They continued to be a source of strength, kindness, and steady love for their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who remained the light in their lives.

A member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Harold drew strength from his faith, relying on it both in moments of joy and in times of hardship, finding comfort and guidance in his beliefs.

Harold dedicated 30 years of his life working as a Supervisor at General Motors in Saginaw. He was a proud, hardworking man who valued loyalty and responsibility.

An avid outdoorsman, Harold found peace in nature—whether it was hunting, fishing, or simply spending time outside. Though often a man of few words, he had a quick wit and was always ready with a joke to bring a smile to those around him. He was also a dedicated fan, never missing a chance to cheer on the Lions and Tigers.

Harold’s legacy is one of perseverance, love, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed, especially by his beloved wife, Mary Jane, along with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were his greatest joy.

He is survived by his beloved wife: Mary Jane; grandchildren: Ryan (Skye) Vedrode, Chase (Jason) Vedrode-Jones, Troy (Kayla) Vedrode, Matt (Rheannon) Thorington, Thomas (Britney) Thorington, Jessi Thorington, and Nellie Thorington; several great-grandchildren; son-in-law: Kurt Vedrode; daughters-in-law: Tammy Thorington and Joanne Seeburger; along with many other extended family members. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Geneva Wilford, Louis Thorington, Nora Nettleton, Bonnie Lou Irvin (formerly Beemer), Betty Winters, Carol Laughlin; and children: Diane Thorington, Harold Thorington, Janice Vedrode, and Paul Thorington.

Honoring his wishes, cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will take place on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 12:00 noon at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Gladwin. He will he laid to rest at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome.com