Dan Perkins Thornton

11/24/1931 - 04/07/2024

Dan P. Thornton, a lifelong Berkeley, Calif., resident, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2024, at the age of 92. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and “Uncle Toby” to his extended family.

Born in Oakland, Calif., on November 24, 1931, Dan attended Berkeley High School (1949) and graduated from University of the Pacific with a degree in Sociology in 1953, where he also served as class president. Completing reserve officer candidate school as Ensign, Dan served with honor in the US Navy as Chief Warrant Officer at the Naval Communication Station in Guam, earning the National Defense Service Medal.

Dan enjoyed a successful professional career in San Francisco holding senior sales and marketing positions with The Folger’s Coffee Company, Spreckels Sugar (A division of Amstar Corp), California Prune Board and Tri Valley Growers Association. He also served as President of the Merchandising Executives Club of San Francisco and Director, Committee Chairman of the San Francisco Advertising Club.

Known for his kind heart and infectious smile, Dan was a shining example of what a gentleman can be and a true friend and neighbor to all who knew him. He enjoyed traveling throughout the world as well as spending time at his Spring Creek cabin in Lake Tahoe.

Dan was predeceased by his parents, Wayne H. Thornton and Dorothy P. Thornton; brother, Wayne H. Thornton, Jr. and first wife, Meredith Stolz Thornton. He is survived by his second wife of 47 years, Elizabeth Prueher Thornton; as well as his son, Peter (Sarah) Thornton; his daughter, Nancy (Karl) Earley; granddaughters, Madison and Sidney Earley; and many loving nieces and nephews, along with brothers and sisters by marriage.

A private family service will be held with interment at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland.