WATERBURY – Lorraine Thorne (93), of Waterbury, passed away Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, after an extended period of illness at her home, surrounded by her loved ones. She was the beloved widower of Walter H. “Sonny” Thorne, her husband of 67 years before his passing in 2020.

Lorraine was born March 26, 1929 in Waterbury, a daughter of the late Charles and Anna (LePage) Ritter. She was a graduate of Wilby High School.

Following 24 years of employment with the Anchor Fastener Division of ITW, Lorraine enjoyed a lifetime of travel and dancing with her loving husband. Lorraine and Walter traveled extensively, one of their most memorable trips being a tour of the UK, Italy, France and Switzerland.

They were well known within the “Nutmeg Squares” square dance club, where many of their lifelong friendships began. Despite her adventurous nature, Lorraine’s favorite place to be was home, surrounded by her family, around whom her life revolved.

She is survived by two children and their spouses, Gary Thorne and his partner Ruth, and Lynne Bernier and her husband Bob; five grandchildren, Nicole, Shauna, Amber, Michael and Rachel: and four great-grandchildren, Aiden, Sarah, Skylar and Elliot.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Maryanne; two brothers, Albert and Leo Ritter; and two sisters, Simone Birdsall and Irene Kiesel.

A celebration of Lorraine’s life and the joy she brought to others will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022, at 9 a.m. from Chase Parkway Memorial/The Albini Family Funeral Home, 430 Chase Parkway, to Our Lady of Loreto Church to celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Watertown.

Calling hour Wednesday morning from 8 to 9 a.m. at the funeral home.

For more info or to send e-condolences, visit chaseparkwaymemorial.com.

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