Earl "Butch" M. Thorn

Grand Marais / Delton, MI

Earl “Butch” M. Thorn, age 75, of Grand Marais, and formerly of Delton, Michigan, died late on October 7, 2023 at his son’s home in Grand Marais following a lengthy illness.  He was born on February 8, 1948 in Kalamazoo, Michigan to the late John and Kathleen (Yeazell) Thorn.  Butch grew up in Delton and graduated from Delton Kellogg High School in 1967.  In the early 1970’s, Butch started his employment with the Railroad.  He worked for many years as a member of the track crew, ensuring the safety operations of the tracks.  He was later named assistant track supervisor and retired in 2010.  Butch loved to snowmobile, and he fell in love with the U.P. and especially the Grand Marais area.  He purchased property in the 90’s and moved here full-time following retirement.  Butch owned and operated the Green Haven Lodge on M-77 for many years.  He looked forward to the many groups and families who would visit year after year for either their bird camp or snowmobile home base.  Butch was the camp greeter and enjoyed getting to know all who visited the lodge.  He also enjoyed road trips with his springer spaniel Bailey and time with friends at the Wolf Camp.

Butch is survived by his son – Greg (Tanya) Thorn of Allegan, MI; grandchildren – Michael (Kelsey) Cottingham and Krystal Klintworth; great-grandchildren – Michael and Mason Cottingham and Hayden and Madison Klintworth; niece - Amy VanCamp; and dog – Bailey.  He was preceded in death by his parents – John and Kathleen; grandson – Logan Thorn; grandson-in-law - Brian Klintworth; and sister – Sherri VanCamp.

No public services will be held at this time.