Jack passed away in Hospice House, Kennewick WA, July 21, 2014, as a result of failing health. He was reunited with his mother, father and Sister Sandra, and many other friends waiting on the other side. John Ferdinand Jack Thornton, was born on December 17, 1937 to Stella Atchison Thornton and Carl Eugene Tex Thornton in Glasgow Montana in a tar paper shack. Being premature, his first moments of life were spent in a shoe box on the oven door. Despite humble beginnings, Jack would lead a life of love, adventure and passion. Jack has an older sister Sandra and a younger sister, Charlene and had much responsibility as the only boy. After years of moving with Dad's work, the little family settled in Berthoud, Colorado, where Jack attended high school. He began working construction with his father at 12, learning to run their 1929 Bucyrus Erie steam crane. A lifelong profession began and would send him all over the world. At age 21, while working a job in Buffalo, Wyoming, Jack sat in the lobby of the Occidental Hotel where he watched a beautiful girl selling movie tickets across the street. Love began. Jack married Corlet Newcomer that summer, July 31, 1959. Four kids—Dale, David, Cheri, and Don—were born over the next four years. The Thornton's moved frequently in early years of marriage. In 1974, the family established their home in Benton City, Washington, where they purchased a grape vineyard and pastures. Jack worked for Neil Lampson Co. and was a very valued asset to the company. With them he traveled all over the USA, being gone for a months at a time. When the kids were grown, Jack decided that he would not continue to travel without his wife. Together Corlet and Jack traveled across the seas with Lampson International from Hawaii to Malaysia. Their last decade of work was spent in Australia, where they made a second home, fell in love with the country and made friends they now call family. In 2001, Jack and Corlet retired on the family farm, where they built the home of their dreams. Also retired on the farm is the 1929 steam crane where Jack first learned to work. In 1961, Jack joined the LDS church. He had a strong testimony and love for Jesus Christ and stayed true to his beliefs at all times. He had a great effect on his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and in the community. He taught about hard work and respect. He expected the best from people, which helped them rise to their potential. He loved his cows, farming and supporting his family in the local sporting events. Most of all he loved his wife and best friend. He was survived by his wife, Corlet Thornton; his sister Charlene Thornton Walls and her husband Bob; Jack's 3 sons: Dale, Dave, Dr. Don Thornton, and their wives; his daughter Cheri Myers Thornton and her husband; his 15 grandchildren; and 5 great grandchildren. A Funeral Service will be held Monday, July 28, 2014 at the LDS church @ 1101 Fay Ave. Benton City, WA 99320. Viewing from 2:30-5pm. Funeral Service at 5pm. All who love Jack are welcome.