Robert Dewey Tharp

Robert Dewey Tharp, age 85, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Granger on Sunday, September 4, 2022. Bob was born March 5, 1937, in South Bend, Indiana to the late Dewey Nelson and Ruby Opal (Dudgeon) Tharp. Bob attended Mishawaka High School and in 1955 enlisted in the US Navy where he served during the Korean War era until his honorable discharge in 1957. On January 19, 1959, he married the former Ms. Darlene Rodgers.  They celebrated 63 years of marriage.

Darlene survives, along with their children Robert Merle (Roxane) Tharp and Rhonda Marie Wilson, both of Elkhart, and Robyn Marla (Don) Ake of Edwardsburg, Michigan. Surviving as well are his grandchildren; Zachary Ake, Jessica Ake, Brandon Tharp, Nicholas Tharp, Robert David Tharp, John Wilson and Sylvia Wilson as well as 7 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held at 68923  Sixth St., Edwardsburg, MI on Sunday, September 18th at 4:00 pm.

Bob began his career as a Journeyman Electrician with Colip Brothers Electric and went on to serve in the Michiana area with several large corporations including Great Lakes Foundry, Simplicity Pattern Company, Wheelabrator-Frye, Bendix Corporation, AM General, and finally Dodge Manufacturing before his retirement in 1992.  Retirement didn’t last long for Bob, as he chose to continue his career another 10 years with Benteler in Goshen. After that, Bob kept busy with many temporary and part time positions, continuing to work until earlier this year. He also spent many hours chauffeuring grandkids and attending their swimming, football, and baseball activities. He enjoyed fishing, playing golf, shooting pool, bowling, bicycling, and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycles.  He and Darlene traveled in their Motor Home several times to Florida along with some trips out west. He enjoyed spending time by the pool at his home and visiting his friends at Club 15 in Mishawaka.

Bob also loved dogs and would often go visit them at “the pound.”  In his memory, donations may be made to Pet Refuge, 4626 S. Burnett Drive, South Bend, Indiana 46614 or online at www.Petrefuge.com.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Bob’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.