Brendan M. Thornton, age 82, of Dumont, NJ entered into eternal life peacefully on Saturday, July 25, 2020 at his home after a long illness. Beloved husband of 53 years to Ann Marie (nee Reilly). Devoted father to Sheila (Anthony) Labita, Claire Thornton, Daniel Thornton, and Michael (Dorothy) Thornton. Proud grandfather of Victoria, Julia, Cecilia, George, and Eva.
Brendan was born in New York City to the late Margaret (Cunningham) and Martin Thornton and predeceased by his brothers, John, Martin Jr., and Kevin. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1963 to 1965. Prior to Brendan’s retirement he was employed as a heating/refrigeration engineer and was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers in New York City for many years. He enjoyed sports, especially the NY Yankees, lighthouses, birdwatching, and reading about the United States presidents. Brendan was a devoted and active parishioner of St. Mary’s RC Church where he served on the Parish Council, and was a 3rd and 4th degree member of St. John’s Council #1345, Bergenfield/Dumont, and former member of the Color Guard. In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, Brendan is survived by his brother Brian Thornton, sisters-in-law Catherine Thornton and Anita Thornton, brother and sister-in law Joseph and Carmella Reilly, nephews Brian Jr. and Michael, and niece Dana.
Funeral Mass Thursday, 11 AM at St. Mary’s RC Church, Dumont. Interment with Military Honors in George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus. Visitation Wednesday 4-8 PM at the Frech-McKnight Funeral Home, 161 Washington Avenue, Dumont. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Brendan’s name to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at lbda.org/donate.