Kenneth Ray Tharp Sr. passed away on February 15, 2019, at the age of 90. He is survived by his beloved wife Mary and three children. Father to Roxann Taylor (Jim), Robin Porta (John) and Ken Tharp, Jr. (Jacque Phillips). Beloved grandfather, step-grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, brother, brother-in-law, and friend to many.

Ken served his country proudly during the Korean War aboard the USS Midway. At the conclusion of his tour in the Navy, returned to St Louis with an honorable discharge to marry the love of his life, Mary. With great pride, became a journeyman carpenter and eventually started his own business, Custom Kitchen Installations, with Mary by his side. A true craftsman with an eye for detail, often talked about being the lead finish carpenter at the Union Station remodel. One of the more memorable “visits” to Dad at work, was when he gave his children a behind the scenes tour before Union Station was opened.

A dedicated husband of 66 years, a Mason, a carpentry mentor to his son, and an example of the consummate gentlemen for his daughters. Ken always approaching life’s challenges with great zest with wisdom, wit and humor: an example for all.

Memorial will be Friday, March 15, 2019, at St. Simon the Apostle. Visitation at 11:00am and Mass at Noon, followed by a brief ceremony at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinsons https://www.michaeljfox.org/get-involved/donation2.php.