James M. Thorne
-- 1937 ~ 2011 --

James Meyers Thorne, 73, died in Provo on Thursday, July 21st.

James graduated from South Cache High and Utah State University in Logan, then received his Ph.D in Physical Chemistry at the University of California at Berkeley. He spent his professional career as a Professor of Chemistry at Brigham Young University; he was a founding partner of the optics and X-ray technology company, Moxtek, Inc. of Orem; and he held numerous scientific patents.

Jim was active in the LDS Church. He completed a mission in the Central States; was a member of the bishopric in a Logan student ward; and served in a variety of callings in his Provo and Alpine wards that included a 15-year term as Explorer Advisor & Scoutmaster.

Although his adult life was compromised by chronic illness, Jim’s poor health did not diminish his enthusiasm for living. His was a sincerely purposeful life. Jim was generous with his time and his myriad talents. He appreciated much and asked little. And he died as he lived, with quiet stoicism, good humor and dignity.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Kaye Hugie Thorne, and his parents, James P. and Norma M. Thorne (River Heights). He is survived by his son, James Perry (Pleasant Grove); his daughter and son-in-law, Allison and Preston Stewart (Alpine); four grandchildren: Maxx, Abigail, Brigham and RoseHannah Stewart; by four siblings: Richard E. (Las Vegas), Lawrence R. (Pleasanton, CA), Lynette Hansen (Salt Lake City), and Steven W. (Logan); and by countless friends and former students.

Funeral services will be held in Jim’s honor on Friday, July 29, 2011 at 12:00 noon in the Mountainville 1st LDS Ward Chapel, 98 East Canyon Crest Road, Alpine, Utah. Family and friends may call Friday morning from 10:00-11:30 a.m. prior services at the church. Interment will be in the Providence City Cemetery, 900 East River Heights Boulevard, Logan, Utah on Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 11:00 am.