THORNE, Vern A.

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Vern A. Thorne, 68, lost his battle with cancer March 19, 2015 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Vern was born in Ft. Wayne, Indiana on April 17, 1946 to Paul and Jeanne Thorne. He grew up in Roanoke, Indiana and served two years in the U.S. Army. Upon completion of his service, he and Naomi married and he completed his degree from Purdue University. He and Naomi moved to Long Island, New York, where he managed an estate that grew azaleas and rhododendrons. Following that, they moved to Phoenix, Arizona where he managed several different nurseries for a number of years. The last 30 years of his career he was a sales person selling school and office furniture. He loved sports all year around and was an avid dog lover. He enjoyed long distance running with a number of friends and completed a number of marathons as well as Half Ironman Triathlons of 70 miles, swimming, biking and running. He was also active for many years in Shadow Rock Congregational Church where they are members. He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents and aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife, Naomi of 45 years; and also his brother, Varen Thorne. Vern will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on March 28, 2015 at Shadow Rock Congregational Church, 12861 N. 8th Ave. Phoenix Arizona. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Shadow Rock Congregational Church, Facilities Improvement Fund or Hospice of the Valley, Eckstein Center, 9808 N. 95th St. Scottsdale, AZ 85258. Information provided by survivors.