Rick L. Thornton

Rick L. Thornton , 63 years old of Decatur, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, May 16, 2017 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne following a stroke that affected him this past fall.

He was born on Tuesday, June 23, 1953 in Atlanta, Georgia the son of the late Corley Thornton and the late Pauline (Darden) Thornton.

Rick was a veteran of the United States Army, serving as a tank gunner. He was stationed in Germany and was honorably discharged in 1972. Following his discharge, he remained in the U.S. Army Reserves until 1976.

He enjoyed spending time at the lake, horses, the outdoors, traveling to the beach, and spending simple times with people. He was especially fond of his two dogs, Coco and Ruby. Rick also enjoyed reading books on military affairs.

He was employed at Zollner Pistons in Fort Wayne for 30 years, retiring in 2008.

Surviving are his life partner of 21 years, Lisa Hirn of Decatur, IN; son, Dustin Thornton of Fort Wayne, IN; son, Jason (Wendy) Thornton of Martinsville, IN; son, Joshua Thornton of Fort Wayne, IN; brother, Corley Thornton of Sandstone, MN; six grandchildren, Deakon Thornton; Kaine Thornton; Tyler Thornton; Joseph Thornton; Jayde Thornton; & Jason Thornton; Lisa's children, Jeremy (Katie) Hirn of Laingsburg, MI; Brandon (Ame) Hirn & Tyler (Prayer) Hirn both of Decatur, IN; and Lisa's 22 grandchildren.

Preceding Rick in death was a brother, Bill Thornton.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon Saturday, May 20, 2017 in the Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home in Decatur followed by Military Honors Services to also be held at the funeral home. Pastor Marvin Schwartz will officiate.

Friends will be received from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, Saturday, May 20 at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to American Legion Post 43 Color Guard or the Humane Society of Allen County.