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Andrew Tharp Obituary
Andrew Kendrick Tharp, 27, of Surprise, Arizona, passed away on November 15, 2013. He was a corrections officer with the Arizona Department of Corrections. He also served in the military for 9 years in both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army. Andrew will be dearly missed by all those who loved him. He is survived by his wife, Kellie Tharp, daughter, Riann Tharp, parents, Hank and Laura Tharp, sisters, Kayla and Candace Tharp, brother, Benjamin Tharp and grandparents, Rev. William and Cathryn Tharp and Joann Moore. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 22, 2013, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of Funeral Services at 2:00 P.M. at Surprise Funeral Care, 16063 W. Bell Rd., Surprise, AZ 85374. Interment with military honors will be held on Monday, November 25, 2013, at 12:30 P.M. at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85024. To sign Andrew's online guest registry, please visit www.surprisefuneralcare.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Andrew Tharp
David Molina
February 12, 2014
Crossing the Bar
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,
But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.
Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.
By Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The Poetry Foundation
Michelle Raymond
November 28, 2013
My heart is breaking for you dear cousin. Family ties were stretched by distance and I was only able to meet you a few times during your too short life. I know your mom was so proud of you. Sending hugs and prayers to those who were blessed to know you. I share their grief. May we meet in heaven
Stuart & Kathy
November 26, 2013
We are praying for the entire Tharp family during this difficult and sad time. May God continue to comfort you with His love, peace and strength in the weeks to come.
All our love always!
SFC Ronald Jenkins
November 25, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
SFC Jenkins an Family
November 24, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Tharp families our deepest condolences God Bless you and help you heal. Montoya Family
Leola Baker
November 23, 2013
I met Andrew when I was filling in at the Bachman Unit. When I saw his name as the victim of the accident I remembered him immediately. I only spoke to him once, maybe twice, but I remember clearly that my first impression of him was that he was quiet, but seemed to have a kind, caring and steady presence. He was fair and consistent in his work. I remembered instantly who he was, recalling needing his military orders for his payroll. Even though our meeting was brief, he left an impression on my mind and soul. He will be greatly missed by all those he touched. My heart and prayers are with you all in this trying time.
Marshall and Chris Florendo
November 23, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, his family. We have known you for a long time and you have always been a loving and caring family. I know this will be a deep hole for awhile, but God is still on the throne and will be with you all on this difficult road.. We will miss you Andrew.
Megan and Ron Mayer
November 22, 2013
My husband and I served with Tharp on the Chafee, he was always the nicest person to me. You will never be forgotten. R.I.P Tharp
Shirley Temple
November 22, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
David n Jeanne Rose
November 22, 2013
Our hearts are heavy for the loss of Andrew. From the very first time we saw him at El Mirage Assembly we knew he touched our hearts. As he grew up we were so thankful that we could be a small part of his life and the Tharp Families. Our eldest daughter made plans to marry and the first thing she said was she needed a Ring Boy and she picked Andrew. He took his job very seriously and did so with grace and a little shaky legs, but he looked so cute doing it. We watched him grow up and was so proud. One day he sent us a message via his mom asking if we could write a letter of recommendation for him to join the military. My goodness, you'd of thought we were asked to vote for him to become President. We felt so honored to do so. There are so many memories of our years knowing him that we could never tell them all here today. Andrew always made an effort to say hello where ever he saw us. He made such an impression in our lives and we will miss him and his soft, sweet smile. Someday in Heaven we will surely meet again; and that day will be an awesome day! He was more than just an acquaintance to us; Andrew was family and will always be remembered as someone who loved with all his might and played the bass guitar with that same spirit. Hank, Laura, Kayla, Candice, Benjamin and all of the Tharp families; Andrew rests in the arms of his savior and is peaceful with no more worries, pain or stress. He will always be with you in memories. Keep his memories alive by talking about them and never letting the stories die so when his daughter Riann grows up, she will know her father through your memories and cherish them as you do. We love all of you and proud to be family and friends. God bless you with comfort and peace knowing Andrew is still with you always...
M Van Der Noord
November 22, 2013
R.I.P Andrew. Thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Larry and Linda Davis
November 22, 2013
No words can express the sadness felt for the entire Tharp family at a time like this. Our prayers are always with you and rest assured that you will see him again one day.
Steve Howard
November 22, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Tharp family for the incredible loss of Andrew. May his memory bring you comfort. We will see him again one day!!
diana fournier frys 674
November 21, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief May your memories bring you comfort
Chris Samonte
November 21, 2013
My sincere condolences and healing thoughts go out to the entire Tharp family. May you find some comfort by keeping close the memories of the wonderful times you shared with Andrew.
Isaac Huff
November 21, 2013
Fair winds and following seas, Tharpedo. You are now and will forever be my shipmate.
Jonathan Eaton
November 21, 2013
You are a great man, and served your country well. Your daughter, when she grows older, she will be so proud of her father's achievements. You strived high and accomplished many things. Going to school and served for many years showed you wanted the best for your family. They are proud of you and will miss you so much. Rest in peace...
Dave Howard
November 21, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.
Lois Kafader
November 21, 2013
My sincerest sympathy goes out to the entire Tharp family with so much love and prayer. God be with you in your time of sorrow. Carolyn Lois Waldron Kafader
Kathy Upchurch
November 21, 2013
Dear Tharp Family
My deepest and heartfelt condolences. I didn't know Andrew saw his uniform and want to express my gratitude for his service to his country let you know he will not be forgotten. In Az we have a Army Survivors Outreach Services. They are based at Arizona National Guard.
I help many of our surviving family's please feel free to contact me. Past National President of Gold Star Wives of America
Elizabeth Bailey-Coffel
November 21, 2013
R.i.p. Andrew. My condolences to the Tharp family. Your all in my thoughts in this time of need. Love ya
Joshua Carr
November 21, 2013
A tragedy to lose such a great person. I served with Tharp on the Chafee. You will be missed but not forgotten shipmate.
Frank Almendariz
November 21, 2013
Tharpedo I will never forget you.
Linda Fish
November 20, 2013
My condolences to the Tharp family. I served with Tharp on the Chafee in Hawaii and he was always so nice, respectful, & if I ever needed help with anything I knew I could ask him. I am so sorry for your loss, but I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to have served with such an amazing person!!! May you rest in peace Shipmate!!!
Roger Fell
November 20, 2013
I did not know you but I have much respect and gratitude for your life. I want to thank you for your honorable service. Not only in the armed forces but as a civilian as well. May you rest in peace!
jameson Mariano
November 20, 2013
RIP Brother. I will miss you always. I have lucky to have had you as a friend, and above all, my shipmate. Nobody washed the dishes for the US Navy like me and you washed the dishes while we were doing our 90 crank tour. You were also the best liberty buddy I have ever had, bro.
Jameson Mariano
November 20, 2013
RIP brother. I will miss you always!! I am lucky to have had you as a friend. Nobody washed dishes for the US Navy like me and you washed, bro. We were an awesome team while we cranked in the scullery, and you were an awesome liberty in Hong Kong and Singapore.
Patrick Eberlein
November 20, 2013
Andrew Tharp was an incredibly unique individual. His quiet and peacful persona was very humbling. He was always willing to explain things until I understood it when others would have gotten frustrated and left. His presence was felt whenever he was onboard. He was a true warrior. I will never forget Andrew Tharp. Watch over us from the skies above until we see you again.
Tom Ludwigsen
November 20, 2013
Tharp, you were a great guy and an awesome shipmate. Wish we could have hung out more than we did as room mates at the chafee barracks. Fair winds and following seas brother.
Timothy Forest
November 20, 2013
I had the privilege of serving with Tharp on the USS Chafee. I will always remember his quiet and calm personality. Fair winds and following seas.
Dari Shawcroft
November 20, 2013
To the Tharp Family- I am so sorry for your loss at this time of year. It is never easy losing a loved one so dear. He was here for a short time, there is a reason why he was here. It' Gods design in who he needs and when. Maybe someone who passed was lost and Andrew needed to show them the way home. We may never know, but when it's our time we will be rejoined with our loved ones. Prayers and love for you all to heal quickly. Never forget and remember the good times. Rest in Peace Andrew Tharp
Martha Bass
November 20, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tharp Family during this time of loss. Love the Bass Family.
Nancy Kimm
November 20, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Tharp Family. We are so sorry that you lost Andrew at such a young age as he had so much to live for. May you keep him in your memories forever. Our love to all.
Nancy and Bob Kimm Phoenix, Arizona
Dawn Clark
November 20, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I was stationed with him in HI and he was the nicest person.
OI Division
November 20, 2013
Rest in Heavenly Peace Tharp. We are proud to have sailed with you and ask that you watch over all of us still waiting on our ticket to reunite with you. Prayers for the rest of the Tharp Family!!
Kyle Phipps
November 20, 2013
Andrew was one of the most laid back people I've ever met. It was a privilege to be on the USS chafee with him.
Clenny, Maria & Kyle
November 20, 2013
We are so sorry for your loss, you are all in our prayers and may the love of God surround you and comfort you in this time of grief.
November 20, 2013
Andrew and I were stationed together on the Chafee. I remember him a quiet but very nice guy. My prayers go out to his family especially his wife and daughter and to anyone who knew him.
Thomas Tharp
November 20, 2013
Taken from us too soon, but will always be in our hearts. Andrew Uncle Tommy Loves you and always will. Hank, Laura, Kellie ' Riann' Kayla, Candace & Benjamin. I am here if you need to to talk listen Or just hugs will the tears are falling or you just need a hug.. your brother & uncle Tommy
Adrienne Allen
November 20, 2013
My condolences to Kellie & Riann and the rest of the Tharp family. Andrew was a great person and it was an honor to serve with him on the USS Chafee. Fair winds and following seas.
jerry& Glorice Huffakers
November 20, 2013
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
Daina Dyess
November 20, 2013
Sending our condolences to Andrew's Family. He was a wonderful man, knew Andrew since he was a little one when he and his Family attended Church with our Family The Rose's of Wittmann. I can not be there for the funeral but will be there with thoughts of Love. Love the Dyess Family, TX.
Jessica Carpenter
November 20, 2013
I met Andrew over a summer session at Glendale community. At that time Andrew had just enlisted to join the army and he and Kellie were thinking about getting married. While I didn't know Andrew extremely well I do know that he was a great man of God, amazing husband and wonderful father. Andrew was a great friend to many and will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. Kellie I'm praying for you during this time as well as for Andrews family!
Dewhyte McPherson
November 20, 2013
My condolences to the Tharp family and friends. It was a pleasure serving with Andrew in the U.S Navy and i will always remember his infectious smile and cool personality. You will be forever in our memories brother and my prayers go out to you and your family. R.I.P Tharpedo....
Vicki Rowe
November 20, 2013
Tharp I will always miss u we started on Chaffee together and managed to always be together for our time on ship. I will treasure the memories! My heart goes out to Ur family! The world lost a great man...
carlson
November 20, 2013
Hank and Laura our thoughts and prayers are with you may God comfort and get you all through this time of sorrow may he give you strength to carry on and let you know you all will meet again in your heavenly home the family will be back together once again, Love Carlson Jr and Rachel Barnes
Ginger West
November 20, 2013
I enjoyed serving with you on the USS Chafee. Fair winds and following seas in heaven shipmate. My condolences the the Tharp family.
Brittany Terrazas
November 20, 2013
Dear Andrew your time to go was to soon you were a great dad son cousin and brother I miss you and love you tho we didn't talk much but when we did it was great If you were here I would say this to you in a heart beat but sadly you aren't love you rest in peace love Brittany your cousin
Johnny Cortez
November 20, 2013
It was a pleasure serving with you on the USS Chafee in Hawaii... Fair winds and following seas in heaven shipmate... aloha my brother and a hui hou (until we meet again)...
Michael Suazo
November 20, 2013
I would like to express my condolences to the Tharp family. Andrew was a good friend, and great sailor. I am proud to have known him, and served with him aboard USS CHAFEE.
V/R/
CTT2
Jay Lynch
November 20, 2013
Andrew was an amazing man of god truely a role model for me even though he was younger than me. He will be missed but his life carries on through his daughter.
Steve & Teri Barnes
November 20, 2013
Hank, Laura and The Tharp Family, Please accept our most sincere condolences. We are at a complete loss for words. Sending our love and prayer.
Robin Keaser Snyder
November 20, 2013
I served with Andrew on the USS CHAFEE. We were in the same division together. He was shy at first, but once you got him talking, you realized what an incredible guy he was. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially his wife and daughter. RIP Tharpedo.
Michelle Diumenti
November 20, 2013
So sad to hear about your loss, our hearts and prayers are with you at this terrible time.
November 20, 2013
Absent from the body, present with the Lord. Your family loves you, and will see you in paradise.
Penny Kiezik
Brenda Welch
November 20, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort through your faith, family, and friends
Monte & Brenda Welch
and Family
Bearden Family
November 20, 2013
May the love of God,friends and family carry you through your grief. Andrew will be missed.
November 19, 2013
I had the pleasure of serving with Andrew durring our time on the USS Chafee while he was still a Torpedo's Mate, and later a Gunner's Mate. He was always a hard worker, quick with a witty observation, and a good friend. He will be missed. To Kellie and the rest of Andrew's family, I'm very sorry for your loss. Ross Warshaw
Buddy and Kim Tharp
November 19, 2013
So many happy memories...We will miss Andrew so much! Lots of Love and Prayers for Gods comfort. Words can't express the grief you are going through...We Love you all very much!
Darrell Tharp
November 19, 2013
God has seen fit to call Andrew Kendrick Tharp my nephew, comrade in arms and shipmate to his final reward. We cannot understand why it should be now rather than later. We must bow in submission to the Divine Will and learn to say with a humble and contrite spirit “Thy will be done” I will hold dear the comradeship that grew from our common service for our Nation Andrew loved so well. We shall ever cherish a memory that is lasting, until we, along with him, take our places in the silent halls of death. To my family may God forever watch over you and protect you, I Love you all dearly. And now Andrew my dear nephew, I bid thee farewell. God grant we meet again in our Celestial home. You are not forgotten so long as there is one left in whom your memory remains. “So Mote It Be” Uncle Darrell & Gail Savage
Tosha & Joe Giannoccaro
November 19, 2013
Andrew will be missed dearly! Our thoughts and prayers are with you Uncle Hank and Aunt Laura and family. We love you all!
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