A memorial service to celebrate Cecil’s life will be held on July 25th at 2 pm at St. Bart’s.
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, musician, and friend, Cecil Thonen passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 86 years old.
Cecil grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida, where his family settled in the city’s earliest days. His deep love for the community stayed with him throughout his life, and St. Pete always remained home.
A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Cecil served his country with honor as a navigator. After his military service, he built a successful career as an accountant, where his love of problem-solving and sharp intellect led him to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of South Florida in Accounting, later working as a systems analyst, spending many years happily working for Vigo Importing Company.
Cecil's proudest legacy was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of over 50 years, Rebecca Thonen. Cecil often joked that the first 50 years were just the trial period, and after reaching that milestone, they decided to stick with it. Their enduring love and humor were evident to everyone who knew them.
Cecil is also survived by his son, Curtis Thonen, and his wife, Gari-Jo Thonen, along with their children, Miles and Jack Thonen; as well as his son, Douglas Thonen, and his wife, Jessica Greene Thonen, and their children, Marilyn and Lucy Thonen.
Known for his remarkable mind and quick wit, Cecil was a fixture at trivia nights with his Tuesday dinner group, where his vast knowledge made him a ringer. But beyond his intelligence, he was known for his huge heart and constant reminders that “the most important thing is having the family all together.”
Cecil’s love of classical music was lifelong. He found joy both in listening to it and playing it, performing with his trumpet as part of the Saint Petersburg Community Band, and Second Time Arounders Band.
He will be remembered for his intellect, humor, music, deep love of family, and his generosity of spirit. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his legacy and the values he lived by continue in the lives of those who loved him.