Obituary of Matthew Blake Thorton

STOCKTON – Matthew Blake Thornton peacefully left this world of ours on Thursday, February 2nd, 2012, at his Stockton home. He was born on 16 March, 1947, in Concord, Mass., and spent most of his growing-up years in neighboring Lexington, where he attended elementary school. In 1960, the family moved to a farmhouse in Raymond, Maine, and Matt immediately became known to everyone. He soon became involved with the local fire department, including nearby Poland Spring, and also became responsible for 70 acres of blueberry fields. The family then went to reside in South Portland, which was nearer to the workplace of Matt’s dad. A final move brought Matt to his ancestral Stockton Springs family home in 1970. While Matt was attending the Stockton schoolhouse, he was branded with the name “Mugsy”, which stayed with him till the end. By 1979, he was a proud member of the Stockton Volunteer Fire Department, which became his 2nd home. Matt put in over 30 continuous years there, and established himself as a reliable, resourceful, always-there member of the force. He responded to every call, including the serious 1985 fire started by sparks from a passing train. We will all remember his selfless and generous spirit; his willingness to reach out a helping hand to everyone he met. Matt is survived by brothers John Richards Thornton of Alexandria, Virginia, Douglas Stewart Thornton of Chicago, Illinois, nephew Scott Douglas Thornton and niece Abby Alice Thornton of Madison, Wisconsin, and niece Doriana Caroline Thornton of Alexandria, Virginia. Plus many, many close friends made here over the years. Funeral services will be held at the Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Avenue in Belfast, Saturday, February 11 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor George Finnemore presiding. Burial will be held at a later date. Please make all donations in Matt’s name to the Stockton Fire Dept., PO Box 339, Stockton Springs 04981. Thank you.