15 FEBRUARY 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® In Memoriam Charles Henry “Charlie” Thornton, Jr. (1940~2023) Charles Henry “Charlie” Thornton, Jr., 83, passed away in Maryland, on December 12, 2023, following a brief illness. World-renowned structural engineer and cofounder of Thornton Tomasetti, he transformed his small New York engineering firm into the international multidisciplinary organization it is today. Born in 1940 in the Bronx, New York, Charlie was inspired to become an engineer by his father, an electrician and bricklayer. He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Manhattan College and master’s and doctoral degrees from New York University. During a career spanning some 60 years, Charlie played a leading role in the design and construction of some of the world’s most famous buildings. He received numerous awards and accolades. When he saw a decline in engineering enrollment at Manhattan College, he started the ACE Mentor Program in 1994. The nonprofit introduces high school students to potential careers in architecture, construction, and engineering. His belief in the power of education and mentoring took ACE Mentor from a single team of students in New York City to over 10,000 students a year across 70+ metro areas. In his personal life, Charlie enjoyed sailing, painting, and spending time with his family. He was also known as an engaging storyteller, delighting in sharing the stories behind the firm’s successes. Charlie is survived by his wife Carolyn; daughters Diana, Kathy (Brian), and Becky; his son Charles III (Kathleen); grandchildren Ryan (Jackie), Kaitlin (Shawn), Casey, Andrew, Brandon (Emma), Meghan (Nate), and Charles IV; two great-grandchildren; and his brothers William (Joan) and Robert (Gerry). Gerald John “Jerry” Sherman (1938~2023) The water well industry lost Gerald John “Jerry” Sherman of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, on December 15, 2023. Born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Jerry graduated from Central High School then enrolled in the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of sergeant while stationed in West Germany in the late 1950s. Once back home, he attended night school at Lackawanna Junior College and the University of Scranton, earning an accounting degree while working full time and starting a family. Jerry was in the water well drilling industry for over 50 years. A longtime member of the National Ground Water Association, he served on its Board of Directors as well as its Supplier Board of Directors and was awarded the life member award in 2000. His 20-year employment at Portadrill culminated in a move to Colorado in 1978 to become their national sales manager. He later started his own company, Wellmac Drilling, in 1981. He started a second company, Rotary Drilling Equipment, in 1985, and enjoyed decades of success as an entrepreneur before selling the company in 2012. He and his wife Dorothy enjoyed a long retirement in West Palm Beach, Florida, making many new friends, playing golf, and traveling internationally. He enjoyed sports his entire life, especially baseball, softball, racquetball, skiing, and golf. He had a strong Catholic faith and was a member of several parishes including Holy Rosary Church and St. Vincent de Paul in Scranton, St. Thomas More in Englewood, Colorado, and St. Ignatius in Palm Beach Garden, Florida. Jim Hopkins of Preferred Pump & Equipment wrote what everyone would agree: “Jerry served our industry with honesty and integrity; he was a true friend and mentor. He will be missed by many!” Jerry is survived by Dorothy; his children Jerry (Kelly), Brian, Jeff (Eileen), and Greg (Tamara); and grandchildren Trevor, Chelsea, Tyler, Matthew, Andrew, Katherine, Katelyn, and Delaney. The management and staff of WWDR extend sincere condolences to their family, friends, and former colleagues. Lest we forget . . .
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