Merle Edward Thornton, 93, passed away January 3, 2021 in Preston, Idaho. He was born September 22, 1927 to Oral Alvin and Elsie Florence Ray Thornton in Dallas, Oregon. He spent many years in Salem and Astoria Oregon.

He was married to Viola Lillian Pedersen for 66 years.  She passed away in 2013. He is survived by his children, Sue (Kent) Adams, and Steve Thornton. Grandchildren: Andrea (Jeff) Jewkes, Laird (Melanie) Adams, Brad (Joanne) Adams, and Paige (Brock) Byram, and 12 Great-grandchildren.

He was a World War II Veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy in the Philippines. He was an automotive parts manager. He loved to fish on the Columbia River and play cards. He was never idle, always finding something to tinker with.

Services will be held at a later date.