Ronald Ray Tharp

Ronald Ray Tharp, 67, St. Joseph, MO, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Ronald was born on April 22, 1958 in Hamburg, Iowa to the late Herbert Lewis Tharp Sr. and Georgia Maxine Tharp (Farson.) Ronald grew up on farms in Atchison County, and graduated from Tarkio High School in 1976, and a few years later moved to St. Joseph MO, where he built a life centered around family, friendship, and hard work.

Ronnie was known as a hardworking man who dedicated many years of his life working and retired from Omnium. He took pride in providing for those he loved and in the work he did throughout his life. Outside of work, Ronnie enjoyed many simple pleasures. He loved the Kansas City Chiefs, good music, animals, and spending time outdoors feeding the squirrels. He also enjoyed visiting the casino, and was known to occasionally hit a jackpot or two. More than anything, Ronnie will be remembered for his kindness and generosity. He had a great sense of humor, a quick wit and loved puns and pranks. He had a laugh that was truly one of a kind. Ronnie will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. His memory, laughter, and generous spirit will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Ronald is survived by the love of his life, Lisa Rygalski, Stepchildren: Chris Guess (spouse Brittany) and Andrea Fry. Grandchildren, Tariah, Davin, Makobe, Raylynn, Anniston, Evie, Roman, and one Great Grandson, Jateo, all of St. Joseph MO, Brother, Herbert L. Tharp (spouse Diane) Holly Spring NC, Sister, Beverly (Tharp) Bowman (spouse Jay) St. Joseph, MO, Sister in Law, Carolyn Tharp, Des Moines IA, several nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.

Preceded in death by twin brothers, Larry and Gary Tharp, and his nephew, Ian Tharp