GARDINER – Robert L. Thornton, Bob, 91, of Gardiner, died Sunday, February 11th, 2024, at his home with his loved ones by his side. He was born in Westbrook, Maine on November 25th, 1932, the son of Fred and Alice (Peters) Thornton. Bob spent most of his working career and retired as a manager from the Gardiner paper mill. He was a devoted provider, husband, father, Gramp, and Uncle Bob. He was a very inquisitive observant man, not letting much by him if anything unnoticed and there is no conversation that was had with him that did not involve MANY questions, on repeat until he was satisfied and reassured that was the answer. He could fix or build anything he set his mind on, even if it took days and weeks of research which again involved talking with many people and hundreds of questions. There was time and patience involved in all he did, however mostly so much time, patience and love to his family. Bob loved children, there needs would always come first. He loved being outdoors working in his yard keeping his home beautifully kept, his cars sparkly clean, and sitting in his chair on the front lawn enjoying it all with the paper. He enjoyed the water, boating, owning a camp, followed by many boats over his life, however his favorite may have been his motorcycles, and cruising around on some of the Cadillac's of all motorcycles, even in some of his last few days he spoke of how he wished he had kept his motorcycle. Bob faced many challenges and tribulations throughout his lifetime many don't ever endure, however he loved life, he worked hard, and it showed as he pushed through enjoying every moment, he had on this earth with the family that was around him. He was predeceased by his parents; wife Erma (Perry) Thornton; three sons, Robert Thornton, JR, Ronnie Thornton, and Michael Thornton, they are now all together again after many years of being apart. Robert is survived by his granddaughter Tracey Thornton, of Gardiner; four great-grandchildren Drew Peaslee, Cameron Peaslee, Brady Peaslee, Adele Maschino and one great great- granddaughter Harper-Ann Peaslee. Roberts visiting hours will be from 4-6 pm, on Friday, March 1, at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am, on Saturday, March 2, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Gardiner. A private family spring burial beside his wife will take place at the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Gardiner. Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, www.staplesfuneralhome.com