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Michael Thornton, age 71, of Twin Valley passed away suddenly on Sunday, October 17, 2021, at Essentia Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Michael Harold, the son of Harold and Grace (Hirchert) Thornton, was born on November 19, 1949 in Hawley, MN.  He grew up in the Twin Valley area and attended school.  Mike enlisted in the United States Army. While oversees, Mike met Kim Kye Hyon and were later married. After adopting her daughter, they welcomed a son into their little family.  Following his honorable discharge, they returned to Twin Valley.  Mike worked for area farmers for a time. On April 29, 1977, Mike married LeAnn Prestegord and they were blessed with four daughters.  Mike built grain bins with his brother, Duane, worked at an organic fertilizer plant in Ada, MN, and was employed with Chisholm Farms in Gary, MN before starting his career at Cenex. Mike worked in the shop at Gary Cenex for nearly 20 years. During his time at Cenex, Mike met Diane Pederson. They shared 18 wonderful years together.

Mike enjoyed fixing lawnmowers and small engines at his home shop.  Mike was always tinkering on something.  One of his fondest memories was rebuilding a thunderbird with his dad. He loved to mow lawn and spent hours on the "yardman" rider. He not only cared for his own yard, but several area cemeteries and neighbors. He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  Mike and the boys enjoyed working on Baja cars, watching the races, fishing, and snowmobiling with his brothers on the river. In his younger years, he loved to go bowling and being a part of many bowling leagues, including a couple's league with Diane. Mike was very easy to please in his downtime. A cup of coffee in hand, watching old westerns, fast car shows, or even baking his famous banana bread and pies. Although, his time spent with family and friends is what he cherished most. Mike was a great visitor, had a fun sense of humor and an unforgettable smile.  His sudden passing will leave a void in the hearts of many.

Mike is survived by the love of his life, Diane; his children; Daniel, Insun, Samantha (Bobbie), Stefanie (Shaun), Jessica; Steven, Brian, Jason (Farren), and Crystal (Ricky); his siblings; Duane (Myrna), Fred (LoAnne), Dale (Terry), Carol (Gary), and Edna (Cliff); 21 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Tanya; brother, Floyd; and an infant sister.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00pm on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Twin Valley. An Open Visitation will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church from 5:00pm until 7:00pm on Monday, October 25, 2021, as well as one hour prior to the funeral on Tuesday. Burial will be held in Syre Lutheran Cemetery, rural Twin Valley.