Services for Dustin David Thorne, 42, Lawrence, will be 10am Saturday, February 12, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.
In deepest sorrow, we announce that Dustin David Thorne, our beloved son, brother, family member and friend, passed away on February 1, 2022 while in the hospital. Dustin grew up in Fayetteville, Arkansas and attended Fayetteville High School. He moved to Kansas in 1996 and graduated from Jeff West High School in 1997. Dustin attended the IBEW electrical apprenticeship technical school in Topeka where in five years he earned his journeyman license. On October 10, 2004, Dustin was severely injured in an ATV accident rendering him totally paralyzed.
In his 17 years as a quadriplegic, Dustin showed great strength and courage through his advocacy to other paralyzed individuals sharing his story and words of wisdom. He loved KU basketball and KC Chiefs football, and always kept the Arkansas Razorbacks near to his heart. He belonged to many online group clubs which included a chess club that he shared with his Uncle Jack, and a KU Sports group. Dustin always had an encouraging word and never gave up on anyone, especially himself.
Dustin is survived by his mother, Bonnie Wiest and her husband, Butch; Bill Thorne and his wife (Sarah), his brother, Christopher Robeson and his wife Straucie, his Grandma Jan Emmons, his stepbrothers Cory Wiest and Dylan Wiest (Mariah), his aunt, Debbie Dechant and her husband, Bob, his uncle and aunt, Jack and Margrit Thorne, Jane Thorne Sullivan (aunt), Susan Wiest (aunt), his niece Lilly Dobbs, and many others including uncles, aunts and cousins.
Dustin loved and appreciated his caregivers over the years, especially Linda who devoted so much of her own time in taking care of him, especially during his most difficult days. He trusted her and loved her.
Dustin was strong in his faith and went peacefully as Jesus called him home. He spent many quiet times alone in prayer. Those who knew Dustin, even if just for a little time, loved him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Rumsey‐Yost Funeral Home & Crematory, in care of Dustin D. Thorne.
John 3:16 – For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
