Robert S. Thornton

Robert S. Thornton, 74, of Rockford passed away on Sunday, November 30, 2008 in his home surrounded by his loving family. Born July 15, 1934 in Des Moines, IA, the son of Everett and Gertrude (Argo) Thornton. He graduated from Tech High School in Des Monies, IA and attended Junior College. Robert was a great basketball star. He married Shirley Nichols in Windsor Presbyterian Church. Robert was a General Manager with Laidlaw Garbage Co., also known as Alliance. He was also a lifetime member of the Elks Club and started the recycling throughout Rockford and established the compost site which was the first of its kind and drew visitors from other countries.   Survivors include his wife Shirley, children John (Darla) Thornton, Joel (Lori) Thornton, Tracy (Steve) Koeninger, Terri Lyon and Tim Nichols. Grandchildren Jake, Christina, Terri, Brian, Tanya, Jeremy, David, Jessica, Jamie, Amber, Austin, Jordan, Tyler. Great-grandchildren Isabel, Brianna, Jocina and Ahmelia; his Sister Patty and his loving dog Candy. Predeceased by his parents and his eldest son Bobby, Jr.   Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service in the funeral home. A brief time of sharing will be at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2008 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford with the Rev. Dr. William R. Kerr, Sr. officiating. Memorials can be made to the family. To