Timothy Alan Thornton

Timothy Alan Thornton, fondly known as the "Fishing Director," took his last cast into eternal waters on November 29, 2024, at the age of 52, in Beloit, Kansas. Born on April 14, 1972, in Omaha, Nebraska, Tim lived his life like a well-planned trip, filled with laughter, warmth, and countless cherished memories caught along the way.

Tim lived a life rich with memories, each one as delightful as the catch of the day. His childhood memories are like the tales told around a crackling campfire, filled with laughter and camaraderie. In the days when fishing poles replaced cell phones, Tim would regale his family with fishing sermons, sharing the wisdom of the water while strumming familiar tunes that echoed through the gentle breeze. Whether it was riding on the fender of his father's tractor, or excitement bubbling over the sight of the Christmas season's "Rudolph" light at the elevator, Tim created stories that would buoy his loved ones for years to come.

He was a true outdoorsman who spent countless sun-soaked days by the water, rod and reel in hand, often surprising everyone with his impressive fishing sermons. Mom often smiles, remembering Tim's unique talent for combining his love of fishing with soulful songs, filling the air with joy and laughter as they enjoyed the great out-of-doors together.

Tim not only knew how to reel in a fish but also how to reel in the hearts of those around him. His brother, Russ, reflects on their childhood, a bond forged like the strongest fishing line, always having each other's backs, whether during carefree days or misadventures that seemed destined to land them in a bit of trouble or when they were running windshield wipers with a string or sharing a boat ride on Lake Wilson, it was these moments of carefree joy that solidified their brotherly connection. Rikki holds dear the day they picked Tim up at Lake Wilson, where his smile shone brighter than the summer sun as he and Russ shared brotherly laughter, fishing rods in hand.

Chris and Misty remember an unforgettable day when Tim turned a restaurant drive-thru into a side-splitting adventure, taking everyone for an unexpected twist in reverse when the driver's side window refused to cooperate. This humor was part of Tim's charm, his great sense of humor bleeding into every aspect of life, just as a good fishing tale captures the imagination.

As night fell on their camping trips, Destiny remembers Tim’s tranquil presence, a bell ringing on the pole heralding not just the excitement of a catch but the joys of camaraderie on those peaceful nights spent catfishing under a tapestry of stars. Zach recalls a time in the park, where Tim dazzled everyone with backflips – a joy that inspired him to try and replicate that coolness, even if he never quite matched his Dad's skill.

Every adventure had its highlights, and Courtney talks about Tim's wild spirit on the tube at Wilson Lake, embodying pure joy as he tried to stand up, reminding all who witnessed that this water was his happy place. Gracie treasures the family gatherings filled with laughter, where Easter egg hunts were more than just games; they were experiences binding them all closer.

With his heart often anchored in music, Andrew will forever cherish the times they shared conversations, both struggling to catch dreams as diligently as they would fish. Hailee keeps memories of getting calls and texts from Tim that reassured her of his pride in her achievements, all while riding around on his scooter with his loyal dog, Diesel, chasing right behind him.

Kandita recalls fierce competitions to see who could snag the first catch or the biggest one, memories laced with levity as Tim playfully teased those who met their match in smaller fish – lovingly claiming his title as the "Fishing Director" with an endearing wink.

Tim leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and endless fishing tales. He is survived by his devoted parents, Allen and Karen Thornton; his brothers, Russell (Rikki) Thornton and Chris (Misty) Thornton; his cherished children, Destiny (Ruben) and Zachary (Roma); and his granddaughters, Arabella and Ellodi, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who will hold onto his memory like a treasured fishing lure.

He also joins the spirited currents above alongside his beloved grandparents, Leland and Norene Thornton, and Eldon and Edna Brooks, ready to fish on the grandest river of all.

So let us remember Timothy Alan Thornton not just for the fish he caught but for the love he spread like ripples on the water’s surface, and may we find comfort in knowing he’s casting his line in the skies above, always watching over us, inspiring several more fishing tales to be told under the sun.

Cremation has taken place and the family will have a gathering at a later date.

Memorials may be given to the family.