David Arnold Thornton

David A. Thornton of Mazerolle Settlement, NB passed away on May 14, 2026 at the age of 80. He was born on July 29, 1945 in Temperance Vale, NB, a son of the late Arnold and Joyce (Christie) Thornton.

He is survived by his daughter Amy Whittaker (Kirk); his son Richard Thornton; grandchildren Matthew Burgoyne and Autumn Whittaker; his sister Judy Thornton; his sisters-in-law Mary Thornton, Marjorie Novak and Lynn MacFarlane; brothers-in-law Stephen MacFarlane and Robert MacFarlane (Geri); several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

David was predeceased by his parents; his wife Lynn Thornton; brothers Donald and Brian Thornton; brothers-in-law George Novak and Daniel MacFarlane.

David spent most of his working life in car sales after first training as a mechanic. In retirement, he enjoyed working summers at Kings Landing, where visitors knew him as a wagon driver and from his time at the Kings Head Inn bar. He enjoyed camping, annual drives to northern New Brunswick for lobster, playing darts, woodworking, tinkering with machinery, and keeping a perfectly mowed lawn with straight lines.

David dedicated many years to York Sunbury Search and Rescue, serving as Search Manager and President, and was also a proud member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. During his years with the IOOF, he served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the Atlantic Provinces and Grand Patriarch of the Grand Encampment of the Atlantic Provinces.

David was known for his sense of humour and for being a tease, who especially loved making his wife, Lynn, laugh.

Friends and family were invited to attend a time of visitation with the family that took place at Flewelling Funeral Home, 585 Otis Drive, Nackawic, NB on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 5 to 8 pm.

For those who wish to make a donation in memory of David, the family has suggested donations to a local food bank.

www.flewellingswan.com