Donald Wayne Thornburg

Don Thornburg passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 13, 2024, in Polson, Montana. He was born in Oklahoma and raised in Foresthill, California, he carried the spirit of his upbringing into every chapter of his life.

A devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Don embraced life with a deep love for his family and the outdoors. Whether hunting, fishing, or camping in the Montana wilderness he came to call home, Don found joy in nature’s quiet beauty.

Don proudly served in the United States Navy, an experience that shaped his sense of duty, discipline, and patriotism. His service remained an important part of his identity throughout his life.

He shared many of life’s moments with his beloved wife, Lynette, who was the center of his world. Their time spent fishing together remains a cherished memory for all who knew them. After Lynette’s passing, Don leaned on his faith and found strength and comfort through his church community. He loved visiting with others, whether friend or stranger, Don was always quick to strike up a warm and genuine conversation.

Professionally, Don was a dedicated lineman who worked for many years in California and Montana. He took pride in his trade and the work he did to support his family and serve his community. He shared many years and good memories with his friends at work.

Proud of his roots, Don often spoke of his Oklahoma heritage. As a descendant of Jesse James, he had a lifelong fondness for old Westerns and frontier tales, often reminiscing about shootouts and the rugged past with a twinkle in his eye.

He raised two children, Peggi and Richard, in Lincoln, California, instilling in them the same values of resilience, love, and integrity that defined his own life.

Don’s legacy lives on in all who knew and loved him — his family, his friends, and everyone who shared in his journey. May his memory bring comfort as he reunites with Lynette once more.

Don is survived by his daughter, Peggi; his granddaughters, Jessica and Nichole; and his great-granddaughters, Peyton and June. Don is also survived by his extended Montana family, Shawn, Ambree, Kyla and Kaden Blixt.

There will be a Funeral Mass for Don on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Polson. Burial will be at a later date in California with military honors.