Chester Thorne

Passed away suddenly after a short but courageous battle with cancer, Chester Thorne of Brownsdale, aged 86 years.
Predeceased by parents, Eva and William Thorne; brothers, Allan (Ellen) and William Jr. (Norma); infant sister, Alice; parents-in-law, Chesley and Florence Head; brother-in-law, Junior; and nephew Jason Head.
Leaving to mourn with many special and loving memories his "buddy" and best friend, his wife of 59 years, Evelyn; four children: Kevin (Dianne), Karen (Calvin Peddle), Keith (Wendy) and Kenneth (Serena); seven grandchildren, who he dearly loved: Morgan (Elizabeth Philpott), Sheldon (Vanessa), Andrew Peddle (Heather O'Leary), Merissa (Andreas Bremer), Gavin, Adrienna and Zachary; special great granddaughter, Cora; great grandchild to be, Baby T. due to arrive in December; brother-in-law, Nick (Marg) Head; sister-in-law, Frances Head; nieces and nephews: Joy, Darcy, Trevor, Troy, Allan, Susanne, Malcolm and their families; extended family and circle of friends.
Ches spent his life at many occupations including mechanic, carpenter, bus driver and jack of all trades. However, we knew his most important job was as a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and uncle which he loved and at which he excelled. He left us with many wonderful memories that will help us get through the days ahead.
He loved to get out in his garden and get his old red International tractor going. He planted and grew all kinds of vegetables and was very proud when he had a good crop. He enjoyed berry picking, especially bakeapples, followed by a boil up for a cup of kettle tea.
He was an active and devoted member of the Orange Lodge in Brownsdale and Sibley's Cove and of the United Church in Brownsdale where he performed many roles in his lifetime including custodian, treasurer and member of the choir and Men's Fellowship. He took much pride in helping to keep the doors open and offering a warm welcome to all. He found fulfillment in his church work and held a very strong faith which got him through the last few months.
He was a family man who lived life to the fullest with his high school sweetheart. They did everything together. Where one was seen the other was not far behind. He loved nothing more than to see his children, grandchildren and great grandchild come for a visit. They were his pride and joy and he loved the time spent with them making memories which we will cherish forever.
He was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and will be deeply missed by both family and friends.
The family would like to thank Dr. Nel for his excellent care over the years as his family doctor. Also special thanks to Drs. Carroll, Holloway and Kehoe and the staff of Wilkinson Memorial Health Centre, Old Perlican and Public Health for all their help during his battle with cancer.
Visitation at Hopkins' Funeral Home, Old Perlican on Monday, September 4, 2023 7:00 pm. to 9:00 pm. and Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:00 pm. to 4:00 pm. and 7:00 pm. to 9:00 pm.
Funeral service to take place on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 2:00 pm. from Brownsdale United Church, Brownsdale.
Interment to follow in the United Church Cemetery, Brownsdale.
As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Brownsdale United Church Cemetery Fund or to a charity of one's choice.