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ELLSWORTH -- Robert William Thorne, 80, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, at his beloved farm in Ellsworth, surrounded in love by family.
He was born on Jan. 21, 1946, in Youngstown, a son of the late John C. and Anna White Thorne.
He graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School in 1964, in Youngstown, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in education from Youngstown State University. He taught 36 years at various schools within the Youngstown school district. His ability to connect with his students left a lasting impact, with many of his former students remembering him for the entirety of his life.
He was known to many simply as "Bob" or "Robin," and he touched many lives with his wisdom, quick wit, a knack for making everyone laugh and an unwavering ability to talk to anyone. Robert loved to frequent auctions and estate sales, collecting pieces over the years that he proudly displayed in and around his farm.
He enjoyed being outdoors whether fishing, hunting, working or just sitting around his farm and spending time with his family. Robert was the consummate host when entertaining large gatherings or just enjoying a good cup of coffee with a friend.
Robert will forever be an inspiration, greatly missed and always remembered.
Robert survived by his cherished wife, Kathleen A. Lawrence, whom he married 56 years ago, on May 23, 1970; his sons, Robert W. (Margo) Thorne II and Joseph L. Thorne; his daughter, Marlene E. Thorne Orr (Christopher); and his three grandchildren, Oliver, Elliott and Emery Thorne. He also leaves his sister-in-law, Elizabeth Gennetti Thorne; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John C. Thorne; and his sister, Joanne Thorne Reiley of Youngstown.
Per Robert's wishes, his body has been donated to Northeastern Ohio Medical University, NEOMED.
A memorial Mass will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 5, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church, 50 Rosemont Road, North Jackson, OH 44451. The family will gather following the Mass to celebrate Robert's life.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox and Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman. Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to give condolences to the family.
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