It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dorothy M. (Dandelske) Thornton at the age of 95.  She was born in West Haven, CT on August 28, 1929, the daughter of Louis and Elizabeth (Schulz) Dandelske.
She attended school in Guilford, CT and New Haven State Teacher’s College.  In the early 1950’s she moved with her family to a dairy farm in South Amherst where she met her future husband, Nelson. Dorothy was a homemaker.  After her children were grown, she worked as a Library Assistant in the Amherst library system.
Among her survivors, Dorothy leaves four children, Betsy Burnham of Turners Falls, David Thornton (Judith) of Belchertown, Amy Murphy (Thomas) of Montague and Dr. Karen Follett (Richard) of Belchertown; twelve grandchildren;  Christopher Goodhind (Holly), Jeffrey Goodhind (Erin), Scott Goodhind (Melissa), David Thornton, Jr., Dr. Emily Dannen (Dr. Michael), Nicole Duda, Megan Seymour (Jeffrey), Allison Bourbeau (Christopher), Benjamin Follett, Gillian Follett,  Olivia Follett, Nicholas Follet and sixteen great grandchildren.  Also survived by her sister in law, Harriett Aldrich of Hadley. 
Besides her parents, Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Nelson Thornton; a daughter, Holly Duda; two brothers, Harold Dandelske (Betty) and Norman Dandelske  (Louise) and her son in law, William Burnham.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to The Food Bank of Western MA or Foundation for TJO Animals. 
Funeral services will be private.  Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of the Kostanski Funeral Home.  For condolences, please visit www.kostanskifuneralhome.com.