GARDINER — Madeline Rose Spear “Peep” Thornton, 1943-2022, of Gardiner, Maine, was called home to her Heavenly Father on February 3, 2022. The loving wife of Richard Thornton, previously deceased, of Gardiner, Maine.

Peep retired from Sylvania. Both enjoyed an adventurous life together. Motorcycling throughout the country and boating were two of their favorite activities.  A constant companion was their dog Princess. Winters were spent at Orange City RV Park, Florida, where wonderful friends were made whom she spoke of with great love.  

As a longtime fan of “Elvis” an impressive collection of memorabilia was gathered. Peep was one of a kind and marched to the beat of her own drum. As a social butterfly she organized many reunions in Maine and was always there to rally and encourage all. She loved to cook, especially peanut butter fudge, and never showed up empty handed.

They were members of First Baptist Church of Gardiner, Maine. 

Peep was predeceased by her father, Walter E. Spear, Sr.; mother, Madeline Cole, and step-mother, Helen Knight Spear; brother Fred Korpinen and wife Charlotte; and sister Betty Baker and husband Fred.    

She is survived by her brother Alan Korpinen and wife Reina; sister Eileen Korpinen; sister Jeannie Spear Johnson and husband Sam; “sister-in-law” Evelyn Green; nieces and nephews: Linda Vannah and husband Larry, Cynthia Hackett and husband Ted, Beverly Edgecomb and husband Gene, John R. Thornton and wife Tara, Joanne Korpinen, Alan E. Korpinen, Kris Korpinen and wife Pam, Elisa Picher and husband Patrick, Mark Orellana and wife Melanie; cousins: Dwayne McCrillis, Robert Bruce McCrillis and wife Tracy, and Ethel Ames.

Peep and Richard had an extensive family whom they truly loved.

“Our family chain is broken; nothing seems the same. As God calls us one by one the chain will link again. Miss you Peep. We will always love you”.

A graveside service will be held May 21, at 11 a.m., at Litchfield Plains Cemetery, 56 Plains Rd., in Litchfield, Maine.

Donations made in Pepe’s memory to the Kennebec Valley Humane Society who strive to create a kinder community by nurturing the animal human bond would be welcome: Memorial Gifts - KVHS (pethavenlane.org)