Kenneth E. "Tom" Wharton

Wharton, Kenneth E. “Tom”, 89, Shirleysburg, passed away Sunday September 10, 2023, at home. Born November 1, 1933, Mapleton Depot, son of the late Melvin E. and Mary B. (Sheets) Wharton. Preceded in death by his wife, Barbara (Dell) Wharton; and son, Edward C. Wharton; siblings, Robert Wharton, Donald Wharton, Nina Shaffer, and infant Litha. Survived by his daughter, Peggy A. Collins and husband, Donald, Shirleysburg; 4 grandchildren, Edward Wharton, Allenport; Emily Wharton, Bellefonte; Melissa Stania, Massachusetts; and Amanda Cramer, Orbisonia; sister, Helen Benner, Lewistown; and his great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Tom was a member of the Germany Valley Church of the Brethren. Tom was a 1952 graduate of Mount Union High School. He honorably served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Tom was employed by U.S. Silica and retired in 1998 after 42 years of service. He was a member of F&AM Lodge #572 in Orbisonia where he would happily serve as Pursuivant whenever needed. Tom was also a member and past president of the Fort Shirley Lions Club and a recipient of the Melvin Jones Award. He enjoyed hunting, shotgun matches, tractors and listening to Willie’s Roadhouse on the radio. Family and friends will be received on Saturday September 16, 2023, from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 12 noon, Pastor Timothy Miller, officiant. Interment to follow at Germany Valley Cemetery. A masonic service will be held at 11 a.m. prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Family Hospice, 20 Sheraton Drive, Altoona, PA 16601 or the Germany Valley Church of the Brethren, Loves Valley &, Loop Rd, Shirleysburg, PA 17260. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heath-Anderson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 61 E. Shirley St., Mount Union, “Honored Provider of Veterans Funeral Care™.” Condolences may be made at AndersonFamilyFuneralHomes.com.