Anderson Speedway management and staff and all of it’s fans were devastated to learn of the passing of one of our own, Rick Tharp. Rick was a long time racer here at Anderson Speedway mainly in the Figure 8 division. He has contributed to the track since his retirement from racing, driving the wrecker. His hard work and never give up attitude is something that will continue to be carried on.
Richard Lee “Rick” Tharp, 70, of Anderson, passed away, August 25, 2017 at his residence in Anderson, IN. He was born, July 20, 1947 in Anderson, Indiana and resided most of his life in Anderson.
He was a retired Manager for Jones Auto Parts.
He served our country in the United States Army.
He raced cars for 43 years at Sun Valley Speedway and other places, running his last race in 2006. Rick also loved to fish.
Richard is survived by his 3 sons, Rickie Tharp (Rheanna Reed) of Anderson, IN, Matthew (Ashley) Tharp of Anderson, IN, Joshua (Chrissy) Tharp of Noblesville, IN, step-children, Sherry Dix of Yorktown, C. J. Haskell of MO, sister, Kathy Jean Heppen, sister, Beverly Sue Hide, and a brother, Danny E. Hancock, grandchildren, Rickie Tharp II, Megan Tharp, Lucas Tharp, Jordan Tharp, Jaden Tharp, Chloe Tharp, Ashlyn Tharp, Jacob Tharp, X-Man Tharp, Emilynn Tharp, Stepahnie, Keesha and D.J. Kramer, Sierra Wagner, and Nick Crabtree, step-grandchildren, James and Justin Dix and Aiden and Drake Haskell, Rick is also survived by many nieces and nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Eva Mae Barnes, mother, Katherine Hancock, father, Lester Tharp, step son Kent Haskell, and his uncle Lawrence Free.
Visitation will be held from 4pm to 8pm on Wednesday, August 30, 2017 at Loose Funeral Homes & Crematory, Anderson, IN.
Services will be held at 11:30am on Thursday, at the funeral home with Larry Avery officiating.
Burial will take place in the East Maplewood, Anderson, IN.
Military Rites will be by the Daleville VFW.
Memorial contributions may be made to Riley Children’s Hospital.
