Bruce E. Throne, 82, of Litchfield, died Friday evening, Nov. 24, 2023 at Hillsboro Rehabilitation and Health Care in Hillsboro with his family by his side.
Visitation will be held Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023, from 1 to 2 p.m. at Litchfield Family Funeral Service home in Litchfield. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Dec. 3, at 2:30 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. John Vidakovich and the Rev. Judy Vidakovich officiating.
Mr. Throne was born on Sept. 24, 1941, to Charles E. and Phyllis (Davenport) Throne in Hennepin. He attended Litchfield High School with the class of 1960. He married Donna L. Mattioda on May 28, 1960, at St. Timothy United Methodist Church in Litchfield.
Mr. Throne began his career at Wepco, later at International Paper, both in Litchfield, and then at Fiat-Allis in Springfield. In 1969, he began his career as a heavy equipment operator with Norfolk Southern Railway, retiring in 2002 after more than 32 years of service, where he took great pride in mastering the skills of his trade and became a respected legendary backhoe operator. Mr. Throne was a member of St. Timothy United Methodist Church in Litchfield, Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Union and was a past member of Litchfield Moose Lodge 1634.
Mr. Throne was a dedicated father, grandfather and husband. He loved spending time with family. Some of his proudest moments were spent watching his granddaughters grow up.
He was best known in the community as an avid competitive runner, completing nine marathons and countless 5K, 10K and 15K races. His most prestigious accomplishment was competing in the Boston Marathon in 1982.
Mr. Throne enjoyed the St. Louis Cardinals and was a charter member season ticket holder of St. Louis Rams for 21 years. He had a natural talent for auto mechanics and gave a special meaning to the term “shade tree mechanic,” as it was common to see him rebuilding an engine hanging from a tree limb in his younger years.
He enjoyed auto racing, blues festivals, wineries and most of all traveling with his wife. Mr. Throne was recognized by everyone he met for his smile and his selflessness. He touched a lot of hearts, both at home and around the globe and forever remains in the hearts of many.
Mr. Throne is survived by his wife, Donna; two sons, Tony (Vickie) Throne of Litchfield and Troy Throne of Litchfield; four granddaughters, Kayla Throne, Lexi Throne, Casey Throne and Madi Throne; two sisters, Evelyn Haycraft of Hillsboro and Virginia (Mike) Hedrick of Benld; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a special brother-in-law, James Mattioda of San Diego, CA.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles E. and Phyllis M. Throne; and half sisters Helen Bushaw and Edith Richman.
Memorials are suggested to the St. Timothy UMC Soup Kitchen or the donor’s choice. Online condolences can be given at www.litchfieldffs.com.
