William Stephen Thore's Obituary
William “Steve” Stephen Thore, 73, of Huntersville, NC passed away September 6th, 2022 surrounded by loved ones. Steve was born January 11, 1949 in Guilford County to the late Thomas and Lucille Thore. He grew up in High Point, NC with his 4 siblings on a 400-acre farm growing a variety of crops and raising horses. The farm is where his love for horses began. He won numerous awards showing his horse at the Piedmont Saddle Club Horse Shows. He attended High Point Central High School. He began his career in the auto parts world and worked at Ray Davis, NAPA and Jordan Auto Parts. Most recently and for the past 30 years, he worked for Reitzel Irrigation. Steve was a hard worker, so much so that anyone who encountered him likely saw him in his work uniform.
If he wasn’t working, he was busy tending to his garden and watching NASCAR races whenever he could get the chance. Steve had incredible wit, knack for a good joke and telling stories, many of which probably wouldn’t make it into public print! Steve loved the finer things in life…a good fish camp, Little Debbie oatmeal crème pies, and a strong cup of coffee. He was an avid fisherman and won a few fishing tournaments. He often spent his Sundays on the lake to feel God’s presence. Before passing, Steve affirmed his faith with Jesus as his personal savior.
The family would like to thank all those at Atrium Healthcare ER in Kannapolis, Atrium Healthcare Oncology in Concord, and the Tucker House in Kannapolis for the special care they provided to Steve during his short stay. They cared for him as though he was their family and we’re forever grateful. They'd also like to thank all family and friends for their support, prayers, and special visits who spent time with Steve prior to his passing and made him feel very loved.
Steve is survived by his son, John Thore of North Pole, AK; daughters, Renee (Nate) Geurkink of West Des Moines, IA; and Stephanie Hayes of Gastonia, NC; siblings, Thomas (Donna) Thore Jr. of Huntersville, NC; Phillip Thor of Concord, NC; and Robert (Phoebe) Thore of Concord, NC; 4 grandchildren, Hannah, Tiffany, Jonathan, and Myles, along with 3 step-grandchildren, Harrison, Chandler, and Spencer. In addition to his parents, Steve was preceded in his death by his newborn son William “Willie” Stephen Thore, Jr. and sister Connie (Steven) Knight of Apopka, FL.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, October 22nd at 2 PM at Gethsemane Memorial Gardens in Charlotte, NC.
James Funeral Home is serving the family.
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