David Thornton

Dave Thornton passed away in his sleep in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Growing up with Dave meant watching Star Trek, playing badminton in the backyard, and making fun of bad movies with Svengoolie. In high school, he had a parade of girlfriends and a knack for acting. With an adventurous spirit, he also had a knack for trouble, like the time he repelled off a downtown rooftop past the windows of a Chicago design studio where proprietary products were on the drawing board. They called the police. He also accidentally rear-ended a car on Sheridan Road that ended up being a police car. And who gets arrested for spitting on an "L" train? Dave did. He took it all in stride.

Dave didn't have it easy though. In his early 20s, he was diagnosed with a cacophony of disabling mental health issues. He developed involuntary muscle movements from the medications. To cope, he took up needlepoint which helped keep his hands busy and his focus sharp. We're sure the guy with a backpack full of needlepoint was a familiar site in Eau Claire. Over the years, we could always count on him for a sentimental birthday card.

Aging and meds helped him conquer his many "labels." He was cheerful with a peaceful attitude not unlike the one he had as a kid. He was looking forward to his 66th birthday in May. We're sure he's now having more fun and maybe making a little trouble too.

Dave is preceded in death by his father, Gregory Thornton; his mother, Ethel R. Thornton (Poquette). He is survived by his brother Christopher Thornton; his sister Emily Calvo (Thornton); his nieces Christy Poli (Calvo) and Veronica Calvo; and a grandniece and grandnephew.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the National Alliance of Mental Illness at https://www.nami.org.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.