Robert N. Thorne, 82, of Westminster, California, formerly of Ashland, Massachusetts, passed away on February 5, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. His wife of 58 years, Nancy (Page) Thorne, from Temple Hills, Maryland, was by his side.

Bob (also known by some as Robin or Rob) was born on August 9, 1943, in Framingham, Massachusetts, Robert was the eldest son of Robert E. and Marilyn (Buckmaster) Thorne. He graduated from Ashland High School and soon after entered the U.S. Navy. Following Navy dental technician training in San Diego, he transferred to the Navy Dental clinic in Washinton, D.C. Bob met Nancy at a dance in D.C. and when they got married they drove across the country and first settled in Laguna Beach, CA. Bob later got his B.S in biology from the University of California, Irvine, graduating in 1973. Bob went on to build a long and respected career as a prosthetics dental technician, owning his own dental lab and working closely with many local dentists.

Bob embraced the California lifestyle wholeheartedly. He loved taking his sailboat out in Newport Harbor and occasionally sailing the 26 nautical miles to Catalina Island. He also became a scuba diver. He loved spending time in Newport at the beach on Sundays mostly playing volleyball and gathering with friends at their favorite local spot. His fun, gregarious personality made him instantly likable—he had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. Bob and Nancy also loved to travel, frequently visiting Baja California, Mexico, plus trips to Hawaii, Peru and Brazil.

Bob is survived by his wife, Nancy, and her many siblings and their families: his brother, Gregory; sister, Susan and her fiancé Tony; and his nephews and their families—Adam and Rebecca Gardner and their children Ethan, Sarah and Luke; David and Yurenny Gardner and son Noah, Michael Thorne and his fiancé Katie, and Paul Thorne. He also leaves behind many cousins, and was predeceased by his sister, Valerie Gardner.

Despite his many years on the West Coast, he always held Ashland close to his heart and proudly traveled the farthest to attend his high school reunions. A man of deep faith, he and Nancy were active members of St. John Vianney Chapel on Balboa Island in Newport Beach and more recently at St. Bonaventure in Huntington Beach, closer to home. His thoughtfulness, warmth, and laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A funeral Mass was held at St. Bonaventure church in Huntington Beach, California for nearby family and friends, as well as a Celebration of Life. A private burial will take place in Ashland. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Heifer International , an organization Bob held dear.