Menu

Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

/

/

CHARLES THORNTON Obituary

THORNTON--Charles H. We mourn the loss of our co-founding partner, a renowned structural engi-neer, educator and mentor. During his 60-year career, Charles Thornton, Ph.D., S.E., played a key role in the design and construction of some of the world's most famous buildings while helping to transform Thornton Tomasetti from a small New York engineering firm into an international multi-discipli- nary organization recognized for its excellence and creativity. With his partner Richard Tomasetti, Charlie led the firm to take on technically challenging projects that others said couldn't be done and set new standards for innovative thinking. An inspired engineer, Charlie contributed to many iconic structures around the globe, from multiple pavilions at the 1964 World's Fair in New York City to the world's first supertall towers - Petronas Towers in Malaysia and Taipei 101 in Taiwan. He worked with talented architects to amass a portfolio of high-rise buildings, airports, sports and entertainment venues, transportation hubs and special and long-span structures. A dedicated teacher and beloved mentor to many in his firm and across the industry, Charlie founded the ACE Mentor Program, a non-profit organization that introduces high school students to potential careers in architecture, construction and engineering. In 2011, the program was honored by President Barack Obama with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring. Charlie received numerous awards and accolades, including the Fazlur R. Khan Lifetime Achievement Medal and the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Civil Engineering. Beyond his professional achievements, Charlie loved sailing, painting and time with his family. We extend our sympathy to his wife, Carolyn, his children and his extended family. "Engineering, at its core, is about shaping the future," Charlie once said. "It is through our collective efforts that we have the power to create structures that not only stand tall but also stand as reminders of human ingenuity." A celebration of Charlie's life will be held in New York City early next year. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the ACE Mentor Program's Charles H. Thornton Memorial Scholarship Fund: https://www.acementor.org/cht-scholarship/ Thornton Tomasetti Leadership & Staff

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Dec. 15, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for CHARLES THORNTON

3 Entries

John ESchemuller

December 18, 2023

Charlie was an outstanding structural engineer, that I had the privilege of working with on several projects in my career. He also founded the ACE mentor program, for which I also participated. He was an inspiration to all and will be dearly missed. My sincere condolences to his family and colleagues. Prof. John ESchemuller, P.E. MBA

Shelley F Still

December 17, 2023

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Charlie. I worked for him for a while and he was sharp, whip smart and joyful. I will keep Carolyn, his and his children in my prayers. My heart is heavy hearing this and
yet I am blessed to have known him. ACE was near and dear to you, my friend. Rest easy , Charlie.

Deirdre

December 15, 2023

Hi All! We are so devastated to hear the Loss of ur Dad, Husband and friend, Charlie. He was an amazing man. Tony, Colin and I are blessed to have work with Charlie and Celebrate Fun times on the Miles River at your home. With Love The Kelly's. We will be at the Service. Prayers, Strenth and healing. Love, The Kelly's

Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results

Make a Donation
in CHARLES THORNTON's name

Memorial Events
for CHARLES THORNTON

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support CHARLES's loved ones

Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.