William Ross Thornton – “Bill”, 72, of Spokane, WA, died Sunday Sept. 3rd, 2023 in Spokane, WA. He was born April 24th, 1951 in Spokane to Bill and Lori Thornton. He was considered to be a “jack of all trades”, working as a carpenter as well as in construction and facilities management all his life.
Bill graduated from University High School in 1969 in Spokane, WA and then went to Ambassador College in Pasadena, CA from 1970-1972. He then went on to receive his Washington State Carpenter’s Apprenticeship in 1972 and then a degree in Mid-Management. Bill was known for his love for animals, sports, singing, and playing guitar.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Lori Thornton; brothers Dave and Donny Thornton; and nephew Donny Heinrichs.
Bill is survived his former wife, Jane Hiemstra; son, Clayton Hiemstra and daughter, Victoria Monson (Daryl); his sisters; Linda Harris & Tammy Katzer (Eric), and brother; Jerry Thornton and grandchildren; Brianna, Adrian, Mark, Megan, Sarah, Tiffany, Nathan, Ethan, and Tyler.
A small family Memorial BBQ was held on Sunday, September 10th, 2023.
Julia Kinstle (Yoder) (1970)
Bill and his family warmly welcomed my family when we first started attending Church in Spokane. They hosted Church potluck socials and softball games at their home many times. Bill and his brother Dave were hard-working, kind gentlemen. I hold good memories of Bill and his family.