Robert D. Tharp

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather;  Bob passed away on July 5.  Originally from Koshkonong, Missouri; Bob served honorably for five years in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict.  Then, he returned home to earn his High School diploma.  Bob’s working career was an astonishing 40 years (1958-1998) with Colorado Springs Utilities in the gas division.

Bob married Velva Dern in 1954 after only a three week courtship!  And , after retiring the two of them went motor home camping, enjoyed breakfast coffee with friends at McDonalds, entertained and were entertained in Cripple Creek, and took semi-annual road trips back “home” to Missouri.  To his children, back home meant country living.  Where pond fishing for catfish and frog gigging and lighting firecrackers with Dad’s cigarette are fond memories.  “Grandpa” will be forever remembered by his grandsons for flying kites at Easter and hand churning homemade ice cream for birthday celebrations.

Bob is survived by his wife Velva, and children Gene (Pam Dutton), Gerald (Cindee Rodden), and Jeanette (Cork Hodge).  Grandsons are Nick (Tammy Ward), Andrew (Liz Airhart), and Cody (Nicole Schmidt). And, great grandchildren Jack & Fiona Tharp, and Otto & Alera Hodge.

Bob had a life well lived of integrity and grit.  He was humbly proud of his personal accomplishments and his family.

A special thank you to the care team at Bear Creek Senior Living and Compassus.  Their incredible thoughtfulness, friendship, professionalism, and care were above and beyond duty during Bob’s final days.

A private, graveside, military honors, ceremony will be held in Koshkonong at a later date.