Michael Shawn Thornton, 65, of Vancouver, Washington, passed away at home on October 28, 2025.

Born December 9, 1959, in Rock Island, Illinois, Mike made the Pacific Northwest his home after his service in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served as an Army Ranger and was honorably discharged. He lived in the Vancouver area since 1987 and built a life and family here.

In 1999 Mike founded Innovative Panel Technologies and spent more than two decades growing the business he loved. He was a passionate supplier of overlaid panels and took particular pride in recent work on a wood-free panel innovation. Mike delighted in providing for his family and often employed and mentored his children in the company. Though he had only a high school education, he was quietly proud of what he built through hard work, determination and integrity.

Mike's family was central to his life. He is survived by Wendy Thornton, with whom he shared much of his final year and a deep mutual affection; his children Justin Thornton, Kayleigh Hardway (Thornton) and her husband Nathan Hardway, and Matthew Thornton and his wife Megan (Looney) Thornton; grandchildren Eythan Looney‑Wolfe, Braxton Looney‑Wolfe, Aspen Thornton and Michael Thornton; his mother Patty Thornton (Davis); sister Sandy Curphy (Thornton); and many nieces, nephews and extended family — and his beloved grand-dog, Daisy. He was predeceased by his father, Michael Thornton, and sisters Penny Thornton and Karen Watcher (Thornton).

Mike loved a good book (especially science fiction), blasting classic rock, watching movies, fishing, camping and long road trips across America — many of which he treasured sharing with his mother. He loved the thrill of a blackjack table and many memorable casino outings with his mom. He enjoyed life's little celebrations — a chilled shot of Grey Goose at the end of the day being one of his signature traditions — and his laugh, generosity and straightforward honesty left a mark on everyone who knew him.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held online as an informal toast — please contact Kayleigh for details at kayleigh@InnovativePanel.com or 971-346-6298. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that friends and loved ones share a fond memory of Mike so his stories and spirit may be carried forward.

Mike will be remembered as a hardworking risk-taker, a devoted provider and a generous, honest man who loved his family fiercely. He will be deeply missed.