No business like snow business

Local business clears snow and ice, lends helping hand

By DON WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

In the midst of a recent winter storm that blanketed our town with snow and ice, a local resident proved that heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Robert Thorne Jr. went above and beyond to clear parking lots, driveways, and roads for properties in Marion and West Memphis. Armed with a strong determination, heavy clothing and hundreds of pounds of salt, Thorne and his crew battled the elements, ensuring safe passage for residents throughout the storm and its wake.

“When it first started coming down, we didn’t think it was going to stop.” says Thorne, “We were fighting a fight we couldn’t win. But we kept putting salt down and came back at four the next morning and started again.”

As the winter storm swept across our town, leaving behind treacherous layers of snow and ice, Thorne and his small crew sprang into action. Equipped with their trusty tractor and skid steer (often called a Bobcat) and began their mission of reclaiming our pathways and parking lots from the frigid grip of mighty Mother Nature. With each property serviced, they not only cleared a path but spread kindness and relief far and wide.

In a heartwarming display of selflessness, Thorne extended his helping hand beyond his client list. Recognizing that many locals were struggling to navigate the treacherous conditions, he voluntarily offered his services for free to some, especially the elderly. This act of kindness ensured that even those who couldn’t afford snow removal received the assistance they desperately needed.

Over the course of the storm, Thorne and his crew cleared snow and ice from parking lots, driveways, and some roads encompassing more than 20 properties around town. The tireless efforts of these unsung heroes made a significant difference, alleviating the burden that the winter storm wrought on the community. Thorne says they paid particular attention to local doctors’ offices and clinics

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Robert Thorne Jr. and his crew worked tirelessly to clear properties of dangerous snow and ice.

Photo by Alyson Price SNOW

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so patients who were forced to brave the blustery blizzard would be just a little safer.

The greatest challenge faced by Thorne and his crew (mostly made up of his brother, father and one other employee) he says was not only battling the chilling temperatures or the sheer volume of snow but also taking meticulous care not to damage any property during the snow removal process. The delicate balance between clearing snow efficiently and being cautious required meticulous planning and expert skills – both of which were successfully executed.

“We really had to pay attention to the details. Not only was diesel fuel and its availability a constant issue, but the black ice could look like asphalt at times. We had to be sure not to cause any damage to asphalt, sidewalks and, of course, hidden things like curbs under the snow. It was challenging but also quite the adventure to be honest.” said Thorne.

As the winter storm subsides and the region gradually returns to its normal rhythm, it is important to recognize the efforts of individuals like Robert Thorne Jr. His unwavering dedication, generosity, and determination to keep our community safe and accessible during challenging conditions truly make him a hero in our midst – even if he doesn’t wear a cape.