Alvin Emil Thorn

Alvin E. Thorn (retired USAF) passed away Wednesday, August 5, 2015 at the age of 91.  Al was born June 28, 1924 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Walter and Minnie Thorn.  He was predeceased by his loving wife and daughter, Sylvia and Debbie Thorn and his brother, Oreman.

Alvin is survived by his beloved son and daughter‑in‑law, Steven and Brenda Thorn of Franklin, and daughter, Teddi of Huntington Beach, California.  He also leaves behind one sister, Leila of Minnesota and nieces and nephews.

After serving in both the US Navy and US Army, Mr. Thorn enlisted in the US Air Force on September 18, 1946, serving as a clerk and ending his Air Force career as an Air Force recruiter in Springfield, Massachusetts.  During his military service he was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and Army Occupation Medal.  He retired from the Air Force on September 30, 1969 and was subsequently employed as an insurance inspector by ISO for eighteen years.

For the past year and a half, aged 90‑91, Al lived his dream of traveling, covering approximately 15,000 miles to California, Colorado, Minnesota, Massachusetts and all the states in between, towing his beloved Outlander trailer.

The family would like to thank staff of Angel Medical Center, Dr. Todd Davis, Macon Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation, Memorial Mission Heart Center, and the staff of The Coli Unit/Palliative Care Unit at Memorial Mission for treating our dad with respect and dignity.

Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home of Franklin, North Carolina will provide a private service for family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory to Dakin Animal Hospital and Adoption Center of Springfield, Massachusetts.

"Now I knew my days were numbered, and when the good Lord called to me, I knew it was time to take one last trip, pulling my own R.V. As I drive through those pearly gates, Dear ones, don’t cry for me.  For I lived my dream, as only I could...Pulling my own R.V."

Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at bryantgrantfuneralhome.com.