BYRON – Charles V. “Chuck” Thornquist, age 89, died Friday, Sept. 22, 2017 at O.S.F. Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford. He was born Aug. 3, 1928 in McPherson, Kan., the son of Elmer and Anna (Holm) Thornquist.
He attended Evanston Township High School for 2 years in Evanston, and than graduated from LaJolla High School in LaJolla, Calif. He attended Glendale City College in California studying General Engineering and finished his associate’s degree later in life at Rock Valley Community College in Production Technology. Chuck served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1951-1953.
He married Marilyn L. Widergren on Oct. 23, 1954 in Rockford. She preceded him in death in Dec. of 2004. Chuck attended the Cornerstone Family Church in Byron. He was a member of the Stillman Valley Lion’s Club. He was an avid Chicago Cubs Fan, and loved attending musicals, plays, and concerts with his special friend Mabel Boyer. Chuck was dedicated to his family and enjoyed attending his 4 sons and grandchildren’s activities. He also liked making sure his home and yard were in pristine condition.
He was predeceased by his parents, wife Marilyn, and brother John.
He is survived by his 4 sons; Brian (Barbara) Thornquist of St. Louis, Mo., Bruce (Susan) Thornquist of Downers Grove, Brent (Patricia) Thornquist of Scottsdale, Ariz., Brad Thornquist of Rockford, 7 grandchildren; Daniel (Carly) Thornquist, Lisa (Paul) Smith, Jordan Thornquist, Dana Thornquist, Lee Thornquist, Patrick (Jiao) Thornquist, and Natalie Thornquist, 2 great grandchildren Brooke and Chloe, and special friend Mabel Boyer of Byron.
Funeral service was 11 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 28, 2017 at the Cornerstone Family Church in Byron with the Pastor Randy Snyder pastor of the church officiating. Visitation was prior to the service from 9:30-11 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in the Arlington Memorial Park in Rockford. A memorial fund is established in Chuck’s name for the Cornerstone Family Church.
