A Vietnam veteran who loved to travel, loved all kinds of animals

Published June 10, 2021

LEBANON, N.H.— David Thornton was born on September 11, 1949, in Lebanon, N.H. and passed away on Wednesday, May 26, 2021.

He was the son of Burt and Eleanor (Chesley) Thornton. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Diane (Hashem) Thornton of North Reading; his stepson, Karl Russo Jr., also of North Reading; a brother and two nephews. He was predeceased by his twin brother William (Billy) Thornton.

A Vietnam veteran, David served in the U.S. Army from 1969-1972, serving in the Army Security Agency with a top-secret crypto clearance. Following his service, David graduated from Suffolk University in Boston, with a Master of Science degree in Business Education in 1976. He held a number of professional roles in the software industry, reaching Vice President in his last position. After retiring, he worked for five years in engineering at the Veterans Administration, lending his time and experience to his fellow service members.

He loved all kinds of animals, and his hobbies included traveling, playing poker and handicapping horses, and he successfully took on a number of challenges throughout his personal and professional life.

A memorial service will be held at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading, on Saturday, June 12, from 10 a.m. to noon. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the veterans of North Reading. Please make checks out to “North Reading Veterans Gift Account” in memory of David. Please mail to: North Reading Veterans Director, c/o Sue Magner, Town Hall, 235 North St., North Reading, MA 01864. To send a message of condolence please visit www.cotafuneralhomes.com.