Douglas Peterson Thornell

Douglas Petersen Thornell 1950 - 2018

Douglas Petersen Thornell, 67, resident of Farmington, New Mexico, passed away on Sunday, April 22, 2018. He was born in Detroit, Michigan on October 2, 1950 to the late Margaret Jane and Charles Buckingham Thornell, Sr. Douglas was the youngest of four siblings, and a long-time resident of Commerce, Michigan. Following his graduation from St. John’s Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin, he went to work at Buckingham Tool and Die Corporation in Livonia, Michigan. There, he completed his apprenticeship and, in time, was promoted to the position of Shop Forman. Douglas then achieved his ultimate goal by establishing Forest Manufacturing in Farmington, Michigan, a successful tool and die shop in which he was President and Master Tool Maker. Douglas was dedicated to hard work and to perfecting his skills. He loved manufacturing products of precision and beauty and going beyond the necessary to the exceptional. Douglas was a generous man with a rich and, sometimes, rye sense of humor. Douglas’ best buddy and constant companion was his little dog Nikko. Following retirement, Nikko and Douglas shared their final road trip to Farmington, New Mexico where Douglas purchased his new home and set up permanent residency. Douglas was loved by his friends and family and will be missed very much. He is survived by three siblings: Anne Christine, Charlotte Jean (Gary), and Charles Buckingham, Jr. (Kathy). He is also survived by his good friend, Amanda Clark, who is currently living in Fremont, California. Douglas’ little dog Nikko has found a new and loving home. Following cremation, Douglas will be laid to rest in Farmington, New Mexico where he peacefully spent his remaining time. Prayers and cards are welcome.

Douglas’s care is entrusted to Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 E. Ute St., in Farmington, NM   (505)325-8688.