Frederick W. Thorne

Frederick W. Thorne, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and accomplished professional, passed away peacefully on August 5th, 2025, at the age of 87.

Born in Rochester, New York, Fred grew up working on his family farm, where his strong work ethic and curiosity for life took root. A proud alumnus of Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, he earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering and carried these values of learning and leadership throughout his life. He was a member of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity as well as a varsity athlete on the Cornell University soccer team, a member of the Ivy League. As his playing days in soccer waned, Fred retained his interest in soccer by becoming a USA Soccer Certified Referee and a participant in local men’s league teams with friends.

Fred’s professional career was marked by a remarkable tenure at John Deere, where he left a lasting impact on the company and its people. Rising through the ranks, Fred served as Territory Manager, Division Sales Manager, Sales Branch Manager in Dallas and Kansas City, and ultimately culminated his 40 year career as Global Director of Trademark, Event Management, and Licensed Products. His leadership, vision, compassion and dedication to advancing others touched countless colleagues and shaped the company’s legacy.

After retiring from John Deere, Fred’s passion for business led him to consulting, where he brought his expertise to NASCAR’s Roush Racing, working in team management and licensed products. His keen business acumen and innovative spirit continued to inspire those around him as he helped numerous Roush teams grow their business performance. Concurrently, Fred wanted to get back to his farming roots so he volunteered with the Future Farmers of America by judging their annual business plan competitions and advising emerging younger leaders. Finally, he was an avid volunteer with the Carmel Swim Club in support of his Indiana based grandchildren who all swam with the club for years.

Above all, Fred was a family man. Married to his beloved wife, Judith “Judy”, for over sixty-two years, he was a steadfast partner and an unwavering source of love and support. As part of their retirement years, Fred and Judy loved to travel the world via sea cruises and they shared many fantastic memories of these adventurous trips.

Fred was a proud father to four children: Jill (Jack Gorecki) Thorne, Kristin (Mike) Sherman, David (Kristin) Thorne, and Susanne Thorne McLeod. His seven grandchildren Claudia, Brett, Alex, Anna, Paige, Cassidy, and Stone were the light of his life. Fred was an extraordinary grandfather, always ready to support their endeavors. Some of Fred’s greatest joys came from attending youth sporting events or going on family trips to Disneyworld and volunteering his time and talents to enrich their lives.

Fred’s warmth, generosity, and enthusiasm for life left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His legacy of love, leadership, and dedication to family and community will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew him.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Margaret (Schneeberger) Thorne, parents-in-law William “Bunny” and Helen (Strutz) Ackroyd, brother and sister- in-law William “Bill” and Sylvia Thorne, sisters-in-law Sally, Hope, Barb, and Alice “Alley” Ackroyd. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, brothers-in-law Dave, Ted and Ken Ackroyd, and numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a small, private celebration of life held for Fred at a later time. In lieu of flowers, Fred and Judy ask that you consider a charitable contribution to the Future Farmers of America Association (National FFA Foundation or 6060 FFA Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278) or the Community Health Hospice in Indianapolis or Community Health Foundation Network 7330 Shadeland Station Suite 150, Indianapolis, IN 46256 - please note “Hospice” on check.

May Fred rest in peace with the eternal understanding of his lasting legacy within all those who knew him during his incredible life.