In Celebration of

Reverend William Brumby "Bill" Thorneloe

August 13, 1924 - February 10, 2024

Bill died peacefully, in his 100th year at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre on February 10, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted and beloved husband of Beth (nee Brown) for 74 happy years. He was a wonderful father to David (Georgeanne), the late Edward and John (both deceased 1972) and Sheila (James) Sanderson. He was a lively and loving grandpa to Andrew, Patrick (Kelly), Katherine (Brendan), Thomas (Alex), Jonathan (Annalise), the late Emma, Rachel and Naomi (Ryan) and proud of great-grandchildren Bennett, Madeleine, Molly, Boden, Hannah, Gordon, Clara, and Eliott.

Bill spent his boyhood in Goderich before attending Victoria and Emmanuel Colleges, interrupted by naval service in WW II. It was at U of T that he met his beloved Beth. They were married in 1950 and both served six different congregations from Newfoundland to Ontario. Together they raised their family and weathered the accompanying joys and sorrows with grace and love. Bill's joyful enthusiasm, and kindness impacted all who knew him. He lived with the assurance of God's grace.

The family wish to thank Chaplin Wes Roberts and all the wonderful staff at Sunnybrook Veterans Centre. A private family funeral is pending. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Doctors Without Borders or a charity of your choice.

Guestbook

(5 of 27)

John and Janice Davis (Sheila's brother in law and sister in law)

Entered February 14, 2024

We remember Bill with fond loving memories of time spent with our family at gatherings. Our sincere condolences to Beth, Sheila, David and all the family. May you feel the love and prayers that surround you all during this time.

Keith Balcombe (Member of VP United Church)

Entered February 15, 2024 from Scarborough, Ontario

My deepest condolences to the Thorneloe family. Mr Thorneloe was a part of my upbringing and me and parents loved him. He was one of the nicest people I met in my life and he was authentic. I lost my mom back in October of 2022 and I am still taking care of my dad. I just told him the sad news and we wanted to send our condolences. I am really choked up over this but I know he is at peace now. RIP Mr Thorneloe.

Steve Fowler & Lynne Guthrie (Brother of Georgeanne)

Entered February 16, 2024 from Toronto

Bill was a lovely man and Lynne and I are very proud to have known him.

George McEachern (Friend)

Entered February 16, 2024 from Mississauaga

Our deepest and sincere condolences to the Thorneloe family. Reverend Thorneloe next to Jesus was the most influential person in my life spiritually. Not only did he lead me to a saving knowledge of Christ but he also introduced me to the baptism of The Holy Spirit. That completely revolutionized my life. He was such a kind gentle and loving pastor who always encouraged his parishioners to keep their eyes on Jesus. My wife and I were blessed to have been married by Bill one year before accepting Christ into our lives. We were hippies and it was the first wedding he performed outside a church in a park. In our pre marriage counselling he gave us a Bible and wrote in John 3:16 for God so loved George and Joyce that he gave his only begotten son.
We thank God for his years of ministry and all those who came to Christ through his compassion and love.

George and Joyce McEachern

Kathy Kerr (Neighbourhood friends)

Entered February 17, 2024 from Oakville, ON

Mr. Thornloe will always be remembered by our family as a kind gentleman. I remember delivering baked goods with my father up to the Thornloes house on Jubilee Crescent. Mr Thornloe was always at the door with a smile and story to share.
Please accept my sincere condolences 💐