William “Bill” E. Tharp, 76, of Peru, IN passed away on Nov. 4, 2023.
Bill was born on Mar. 19, 1947, to Glen and Frances Tharp of Denver, IN. Bill graduated from North Miami High School and enlisted in the USAF. Bill worked in the propeller shop at Korat RTAFB, Thailand during his tour of duty in the Vietnam War.
Bill went on to serve 20 years in the USAF as an NDI Inspector; he honorably retired while stationed at Grissom AFB.
Bill married Linda L. Smith from high school, and they had 2 children, Chris, and Brian.
Bill was owner of an auto repair and machine shop after his retirement from the USAF. Upon closing the shop, Bill continued his hobbies of cooking, racing, autos, Hot Wheels, and collecting things in general.
Bill was brilliant in his capacity for auto repair/machining and had an artistic gift with metal crafting. Bill’s temperament, proclivity for exaggeration, taking items, and his struggles to maintain stable relationships were never understood and overshadowed much of the good in his life. May he have peace.
Bill was predeceased by his parents, Glen and Frances, and former wife, Linda Tharp. He is survived by brother, James “Jim” Tharp, Indianapolis, sons; Chris (Sarah) Tharp of Goshen and Brian of Indianapolis, grandson, Glen and granddaughter, Jessica, both of Goshen.
Family and friends are welcome to graveside services at Chili Baptist Cemetery at 2pm on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy & Allen Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
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