In Memory of Sam Thornton
Wednesday, April 22nd ’09 

Sam Thornton passed away today.  He will be missed by family and friends here in California, around the country, and around the world.

Sam made friends easily.   He always had time to sit down for a visit, enjoyed meeting new people, liked hearing their stories.  He would offer his help to anyone who might need it.  He had a passion for ideas and real conversations about any variety of topics.

He also had a passion for polo.  We enjoyed Sam’s company most weekends during the polo season in Indio, at fieldside and in the Cantina.  He had built his desert home himself, and it was a haven for many of us.  Each year would bring an addition or improvement to his property, largely through the efforts of Sam’s own labor.  He was looking forward to bringing horses back to the property in the upcoming season.

We only knew a bit of Sam’s life, but he was a part of ours and we will miss him.

– Christie Craven

Sam has been a part of the community at Eldorado Polo Club for many years.  I enjoyed many conversations with him while watching polo, having drinks at the Cantina and at the many BBQs he hosted at his house. He has thrown some great parties over the years and we have many good memories because of Sam.  He was always up for a good debate or  discussion.  He was a bit of a rebel and often defended the underdog in a situation.  Even with his rebel streak, Sam was a always a gentleman.  He was a very generous man.  Sam always offered his support to his friends whether it be loaning them tools, offering them a couch to sleep on or buying them a drink at the bar.   

Sam had just returned from a vacation to Australia and New Zealand.  He went to watch polo and see a new part of the World.   I was eager to hear stories about  his recent trip, but I didn’t get that opportunity.  Sam had a heart attack in late March, went through quadruple bypass surgery, but his heart was not strong enough.  

Sam was a good man and he will be missed.  It won’t be the same here in the desert without him!  

Per Sam’s wishes there will be no service.  A few of us are planning to get together next week, after Stagecoach leaves town, and have a drink at the Tavern in honor of Sam.  I’ll post details on Facebook if anyone here in the desert wants to join us.  

-Lynn Bremner

Note:  Some people are posting notes about Sam on my Facebook account.  Please feel free to e-mail lynn@polozone.com and I can add your comments or stories about Sam here, or you can register and post a comment at the bottom of this article.