It is with deep sadness and heartbreak that the family of Gary "TBone" Thorne announce his passing on May 9th, 2025 surrounded by his family. Gary is a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Born on May 10th, 1950, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Gary's life was a tapestry woven with the love of family, the joy of friendship, and a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.
Gary was a graduate of Hillcrest High School. Following his education, he embarked on a fulfilling career with Manitoba Pool Elevators, dedicating 32 years of service before taking early retirement at the age of 52. His retirement years were anything but idle, as he found joy in working part-time in landscaping alongside his son, Shane. One of Gary's most treasured retirement experiences was spending three summers at a fly-in fishing resort with his best friend, Wolfman. He brought his family up to fish many times. This was Gary's favourite perk of the job as he could share his experience with his family. He often said he felt like he had won the lottery during those years, working with friends and welcoming guests who would become lifelong companions. Later, Gary found another role he loved at Home Depot, where he relished the opportunity to work with colleagues and continue making new friends.
Throughout his life, TBone was a sports enthusiast. From his early days playing little league baseball, junior fastball, and slo-pitch, he maintained many childhood friendships that stood the test of time. Tbone was a participant in the Annual Joker’s Horseshoe Tournament for 40 plus years with many of his childhood friends, J.R. Harvey, Wally, Moe, Uke, and many more. They would share memories, compete and have a great time while spending quality time together! A die-hard White Sox fan, Tbone also had a soft spot for the Blue Jays, and games were a fixture in his home. He also loved going to watch his great nephews play ball whenever he could. His love for sports extended to broomball, golfing, and fishing – activities that brought him much joy and laughter with his buddies. Volunteering as a host driver at the local Blues Fest was another highlight of Tbone’s, a testament to his love for music and his community spirit. His vinyl collection was vast, his iPod always full, and his impromptu air guitar performances were legendary among his friends and family.
Gary had a strong bond with each of his five children. He loved them all so much and enjoyed every moment with them. He was always checking in on the kids to see how they were doing.
Gary is survived by his wife, Vicki and his children Jessica (Fred), Shye (Cam), Shane (Rebecca), Turner, and Kelly (Mitch). Gary is also survived by his sister Marilyn Sutton whom he loved dearly. Marilyn said he was the best brother ever. He was a beacon of love and humour in their lives, always ready with an optimistic outlook and a funny story to share. He woke up singing everyday. His ability to see the bright side of any situation was infectious, and those who knew Gary were better for it.
Gary is also survived by his eight grandchildren who brought so much joy to his life. The kids loved their Grandpa TBone. He is also survived by his mother and father-in-law Marion and Gary Ball and his brother-in-law Ken Bruley. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom he was always so happy to see.
Gary truly made a life by giving himself to his work, his passions, and, most importantly, to the people he loved. His generosity of spirit, his unwavering optimism, and his ability to bring laughter into any room will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
As we say goodbye to Gary, we celebrate a life lived with passion, kindness, and a heart full of love. His memory will continue to inspire those he leaves behind, and the stories of his life will be recounted with smiles and warm hearts for years to come. Gary's journey through life was a testament to the power of living each day with joy and gratitude, and his legacy will endure in the lives of those he touched.
Gary was predeceased by Mother Avril, Father Lenart, sister's Linda and Betsy and his brother-in-law Hugh. He was also predeceased by his father-in-law Wayne Foster and his sisters-in-law Susan and Janis.
A Celebration of Life for Gary will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025 1:00 p.m. at the Port Arthur Curling Centre, 214 Egan St.
Gary would have loved to support the children’s curling program at PACC. Donations can also be made in Gary’s memory to the Thunder Bay Arthritis Rehabilitation – Education Program.
Thank you to all who visited Gary, the calls, messages, food, flowers, cards and most of all your continued support.
We will miss you forever Gary. See you. Love you. Bye. XO
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
