James "Jim" Thorne

James “Jim” Thorne, 76, of Pekin, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, at 5:51 a.m. at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, following an extended illness. He was surrounded by the love of his family.

Jim was born on March 13, 1950, in Pekin, Illinois, to Mary K. Thorne and Ed Thorne. He graduated from Pekin High School in 1969 before proudly serving his country in the United States Army from 1971 to 1974.

On December 27, 1971, Jim married the love of his life, Rita (Hansen) Thorne. A life well lived alongside one another through every season of their lives. Together they built a life centered on family and raised three children: Jennifer (Rich) McConnell, James “Ed” (Shawnna) Thorne, and Kathryn (Michael) Degrave.

Jim leaves behind 1 brother Mark Thorne (Diana) and 1 sister Sandy Hill, as well as 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him endless joy. He was preceded in death by his parents and a beloved granddaughter, Macey Weston.

Throughout his life, Jim wore many hats. He worked as an orderly at Pekin Hospital while attending high school, later served as a police officer in Tazewell County, including the communities of Tremont and Mackinaw, and spent many years as a Teamster driving semi-trucks.

Jim loved the outdoors and was happiest hunting, fishing, and camping. More than anything, he treasured spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his beloved dogs. He was also known for his one of a kind sense of humor, and he loved making people laugh, especially his grandchildren, who will always remember his jokes, teasing, all his cooking, and camping trips.

A true craftsman and history enthusiast, Jim had a passion for collecting firearms and knives and was a mountain man reenactor, especially at Fort Creve Coeur. Through his business, Mountain Man Traders, he handcrafted and sold authentic reenactment clothing, teepees, and tents, sharing his love of history with countless others.

Jim will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, his sense of humor, and the love he had for his family. His memory will live on through the large family he helped build and the countless memories that his family and friends will cherish forever.

Cremation rites were accorded.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.  

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