Stephen Russell Thornock

Stephen Russell Thornock, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on June 1, 2026. Steve was born on July 22, 1947, in St. Ignatius, Montana, to Heber Russell Thornock and Elizabeth Durrant Thornock. On September 1, 1967, Steve married the love of his life, Susan Beth Simonson, in St. Ignatius, Montana. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, hard work, and service. Their family was sealed for time and all eternity on August 10, 1973, in the Ogden Utah Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Throughout their marriage, Steve and Susan made their homes in Ogden, Utah; Grand Junction, Colorado; Eugene, Oregon; Sandy, Utah; and Bluffdale, Utah. Wherever they lived, they built lasting friendships and strengthened the communities around them through their kindness, service, and example. Steve earned his bachelor’s degree from Weber State University. He spent his entire professional career with American Linen Supply, serving for more than 40 years. During that time, he never missed a single day of work. His exceptional work ethic, integrity, and leadership earned him numerous promotions and repeated recognition as one of the company’s top-performing managers. He was respected by his colleagues, admired by those he led, and trusted by all who knew him. Steve loved the outdoors and embraced life with enthusiasm. Hunting, fishing, pickleball, tennis, golf, gardening, woodworking, and spending time with his beloved dogs brought him immense joy. He was especially proud of the hunting dogs he trained over the years. His gentle nature was evident in every aspect of his life—he never raised his voice to anyone, including his dogs. Family was always Steve’s highest priority. He and Susan faithfully attended countless sporting events, dance recitals, performances, and activities for their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether sitting in the stands, cheering from the sidelines, or offering encouragement afterward, he loved every minute of supporting those he loved. Steve was an avid reader whose favorite author was C.J. Box. He was also a talented woodworker who spent countless hours creating handmade gifts and treasured keepsakes for his children and grandchildren. He loved BYU athletics and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Cougars in football, men’s and women’s basketball, and volleyball. He was also a lifelong fan of the Detroit Tigers and enjoyed watching them and even taking family members to watch them play whenever he could. Many fond family memories were created around baseball. Steve coached his sons’ baseball teams and later helped build dozens of Pinewood Derby cars for his children and grandchildren. His backyard was often the setting for spirited family baseball games, where he proudly served as pitcher for generations of Thornocks and their friends. Kelly, his only daughter, brought a special joy to his life. He adored her, was immensely proud of the woman she became, and cherished the time they spent together throughout the years. Steve was a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ and served faithfully in many callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as a Scoutmaster and Young Men leader for many years, including long before his own children were old enough to participate and throughout their entire youth. He also served as a Primary teacher, Elders Quorum President, counselor in a bishopric, member of the High Council, and Stake Clerk. In every calling, he went above and beyond, serving with humility, dedication, and love. Steve found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He looked forward to his daily walks with his dog, often stopping at McDonald’s on the way home for a sausage, egg, and cheese McMuffin and a Diet Coke. He loved family dinners on Sunday evenings and cherished having everyone gathered around the table. His favorite restaurants were Ruby River Steakhouse and Cupbop, but his favorite place was wherever his family happened to be. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Heber Russell Thornock and Elizabeth Durrant Thornock; his brother, Larry Thornock; and his sister, Joan Clair. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 59 years, Susan Beth Thornock; his children, Monty (Melissa) Thornock, Kevin (Torry) Thornock, Kelly (Steve) Chidester, and Aaron (Aubrey) Thornock; his grandchildren, Makenzie Child, Ryan Thornock, Chandler Thornock, Lauren Wilson, Kobe Chidester, Koleman Chidester, Taitum Chidester, Ellie Chidester, Hunter Thornock, Jackson Thornock, Luke Thornock, Xander Thornock, Staley Haslem, Roman Thornock, and Nixon Thornock; and his great-grandchildren, Liv Child, Rogue Child, Paislee King, Baby Thornock, Watson Thornock, Layla Wilson, Wyatt Chidester, and Korver Chidester. He is also survived by his sisters, Conna Beth Hendricks, Vonnie Oman, Kathy Gasser, Linda Platt, Beverly Jones, and Anita Hathaway; and his brothers, Earl Thornock, Mark Thornock, and Jeff Thornock. Steve’s legacy is one of quiet strength, unwavering faith, hard work, kindness, and unconditional love. He taught by example that success is measured not by what we accumulate, but by how we treat others, honor our commitments, and love our families. He never sought recognition, but his life left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. His influence will continue to be felt for generations, and he will be deeply missed until the day his family is joyfully reunited with him again.

Stephen Russell Thornock

July 22, 1947 - June 1, 2026