Dale A. Thornton
Dale A. Thornton, 68, of DeKalb Junction, died on April 7, 2020, at his home. There will be a Celebration of Life at a time to be determined by his family. He is survived by his wife, Karen Thornton, sons, Richard Thornton of N.Y., Bradley and his wife Kristy Thornton of Canton, daughters, Gina Dafoe of Chesapeake, Virginia, Brandi and her husband Chris Harris of DeKalb, a brother, Floyd and his wife Ann Thornton of Edwards, a sister Debbie and her husband Gerald Phillips of Fowler, 8 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, 1 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, Gerald Thornton and Michael Thornton. Dale was born on October 30, 1951, in Gouverneur, to the late, Gerald and Leota Hazelton Thornton. He married Karen Walrath on July 8, 1972 at the Methodist Church in Gouverneur. He and Karen owned and operated Dale’s Grocery in DeKalb Junction for twenty five years selling the store in 2009. Prior to that he worked as a miner for Zinc Corp. He was a past member of the Canton Kiwanis Club, Hermon DeKalb Pee Wee Association, and the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce. He was a big supporter of his community. He LOVED his family before all else. He enjoyed farming, being in the woods, hunting, fishing, going to camp, dealing with the Amish and riding in his Kubota with Karen and LilBit. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Hermon Rescue Squad or the Canton Rescue Squad.
Dale and his family were our neighbors when I was a child. He was a friend and will be sorely missed. I send love and calming thoughts to his family in their time of mourning.
Karen and family, we are so sorry to hear of Dale’s passing. Such a kind man and a friendly, generous neighbor. We will keep you in our thoughts.
Karen and family, Ron & I were so sorry to hear that Dale had passed away.Our thoughts and
prayers are with you through this heartbreaking time.
I’m so sorry to hear of Dale’s passing. I worked with Dale at St. Joe in the early 80’s before the strike. I was just a rookie 19 YO starting out as a mechanic and Dale always had my back. I’ve thought about him many times over the years. RIP Dale. You were one of the good guys.
To all of Dale’s family, my condolences. Dale is my cousin (Hazelton side of the family). Our live’s path takes on our own journey and thus, I had not seen him for many years. I do have some fond memories of visits when we were kids to the Thornton home in Edwards, NY. His mom, My Aunt Leota, was a fine cook and those visits were filled with good food and cheer. I will keep the family in my thoughts.
My deepest sympathy goes out to the Thornton family. Years ago you were my neighbors and I remember Dale and his son helping me out in the ice storm and I so appreciated that. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I used to visit with Dale many times at the store and also on the side of the road near his home. he was always a really good guy and a true friend to everyone.
My prayers and condolences during this time of sorrow. RIP my friend, may you forever be in God’s grace.
To all family and friends thoughts and prayers with each of you.such a wonderful person whom blessed many lives.a smile that won’t be forgotten, always good conversations while at the store and an awesome community member whom all can say is and will be missed so sorry for our loss here on earth, I can’t say enough positive things to help with the loss you feel but hugs and prayers