Keith Thornton

Keith E. Thornton was born June 13, 1955 in Lucas, Kansas to Leland and Norene (Schloh) Thornton.  He departed this life to join his son Trevor in heaven on April 20, 2020.  

Keith was united in marriage on September 30, 1974 to Brenda French.  To this union three children were born, Brandon, Trevor and Megan.

Keith worked for J-Oil Company for several years before going to work at the Osborne County Highway Department, where he worked for 39 years.  Keith enjoyed tearing down old barns and houses, attending his kids activities, especially car races in which Brandon, Trevor and Brady participated.  He really enjoyed watching his grandkids in their many activities as well.  He loved watching Jorden, Tyler and Cambri play basketball as well as football and volleyball.  “The kids from up north” as he referred to Braydon, Avari and Reid-carry on the racing tradition and Keith truly enjoyed going and cheering them on.  Kenley was just getting started in basketball and he was excited to watch her.  Tucker played T-ball and grandpa loved watching him learn the game.  

Camping was a huge part of Keith’s life.  He loved being around all of the kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews at the lake.  Keith especially enjoyed his shade tree visits with the camp hosts Ruth and Gary Copple who became very dear friends to him and Brenda.  We are sure that Keith and Gary are having a good B.S. Session while looking down on us.

Keith was preceded in death by his son Trevor on February 6th and his parents Leland and Norene Thornton.

Keith is survived by his wife of 45 years Brenda, children Brandon and wife Paige, daughter Megan and husband Brady Schoen, daughter in law Keri, grandchildren Tyler, Jorden, and Cambri Schoen, Braydon Avari and Reid Thornton, Kenley and Tucker Thornton; brothers Lynn (Jacque), Allen (Karen), Bill and sister Vickie Hopson (Dale).  Many nieces and nephews, friends and enemies and his extended family of in-laws also survive. 

A private family graveside service will be held on Thursday, April 23 at the Covert Cemetery, Osborne KS.  A memorial service will be held at a later date to honor Keith’s life. Memorials may be made to Keith Thornton Memorial in care of Schoen Funeral Home and Monuments 302 N. Hersey Ave, Beloit, KS 67420. 

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