Howard Thorn, Sr.
August 14, 2016
Howard Alden Thorn Sr.
Des Moines
Howard Alden Thorn Sr., 77, was born August 30, 1938 in Milo, Iowa to Rolland Howard and Eva Isabelle (Duncan) Thorn. He graduated from East High School. He was an engineer for Union Pacific Railroad for 34 years until his retirement in 2003.
Howard passed away Sunday, August 14, 2016 at Union Park Care Center in Des Moines. A memorial celebration will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Saturday, August 20, 2016 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street Des Moines. A private burial will take place at a later time at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Howard was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his first wife, Sherry Thorn and their daughter, JoAnna McBee (Bill); children from marriage with Deb Thorn: daughter, Nicole Thompson (Tony), and son, Howard Thorn Jr. (Bonnie); and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rolland and Eva Thorn, siblings, Betty Benson and Dick Thorn, son, Christopher Thorn, granddaughter, Randi Ann Thorn, and his wife, Deb (Westendorf) Thorn.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Michael Chapman
08/18/2016
This was one heck of a man. I'm honored to say I worked beside him. I more honored to say he was my friend! "That'll do Big Dog"
Bobby G
08/17/2016
Worked with Big Dog many years & I will always remember that booming voice & big grin matched only by his heart. You will be remembered. Thoughts and prayers for his family. RIP
Chris Lenning
08/17/2016
Worked with Howard when I first hired out on the railroad he was truly one of the nicest guys I had the pleasure of working with, and a true Eastsider. RIP my friend.
Jerry Bixler (JB)
08/17/2016
Worked with Big Dog many years. RIP
Julie Johnson
08/17/2016
Heaven gained another angel. May you seek comfort knowing he is now with the love of his life. With his BIG smile, deep voice and kind heart he's saying move on now, but never forget us! Love you all?
Julie Henry
08/17/2016
So sorry will be praying for your family in your time of loss your dad was an awesome guy I loved to see him laugh and boy he did a lot of that at me and Nicole when we lived together.
Wayne Westendorf
08/16/2016
Worked with Howard couldn't enjoyed it more. Great friend!
RIP Big Dog!
Michelle Kelsey
08/15/2016
Howard was a great person. Everyone at Union Park loved Howard. He will be greatly missed. His family are in our thoughts. Family meant everything to Howard and they were always here for him. We will miss the daily visits, rain or shine, everyday showing how much you love your dad and grandpa! Thinking of you all