Viola Lillian Pedersen Thornton

Viola Lillian Pedersen Thornton passed away Sunday morning. She was born in Ogden, Utah, to Valdemar and Johanne Pedersen. She moved to Brownsmead when she was very young, and spent most of her life in Astoria/Warrenton area, except 13 years in Salem. She loved fishing, crabbing, clam digging and beach combing. She loved to garden and be outdoors. She worked in the canneries for many years.

She is survived by her husband, Merle, of 66 years, children Sue (Kent) Adams and Steven.

She has 4 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by 2 sisters, Karen Radich and Verna Hellberg , and many nieces and nephews.

She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Memorial services will be Friday, May 31, 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 350 Niagara Ave., Astoria.

Cremation by Caldwell’s Luce-Layton Funeral Home. An online guest book may be signed at www.caldwellsmortuary.com