Hurricane, Utah – Dale Richard Tharp, 77, of Hurricane, Utah passed away on February 2, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on October 25, 1945, in Glendale, California to Glen Ivan Tharp and Lillian Mae Smith. Dale was known for his integrity, unconditional love, and unwavering faith in the Savior. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Dale was a family man and exemplary father, raising 8 children with his wife Dori Ann. He always loved being with the family whether it be going on a summer trip together or spending time with his children at home. He honored his Priesthood and covenants, and helped his children grow to know the Savior. Family Home Evening and scripture study were always a top priority. The home was a loving and welcoming place. On most occasions there was at least one extra person around who was welcomed in and treated like another member of the family. Dale was a great listener, and he also knew how to captivate everyone in the room with one of his interesting stories or one of his jokes.

When Dale was only 10 years old his father passed away in a tragic accident. His mother was left to raise him and his two brothers by herself. Their roles were reversed when Dale was able to care for her for the last few years of her life.

Dale was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age 19. He served as a missionary in the Northern Indian Mission at age 23. He remained a diligent member of the church throughout his life and served in numerous callings including stake mission president, bishopric member, high counselor, scout master, gospel doctrine teacher, and early morning seminary teacher. He and Dori Ann were married in the Los Angeles Temple in 1972. They served together as temple workers. After raising their children, Dale and Dori served in the Peru Lima South Mission and in the Tennessee Nashville Mission. They were also called and planning to serve in the Argentina Buenos Aires North Mission until Dale's cancer diagnosis.

Dale served his country with honor, enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1967 and serving as a Communications Technician in Guam during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1969.

Dale was industrious and had a very hard work ethic. He was known for being a mentor, role model, and leader to many people during his life. He graduated from Granada Hills High School in 1963 and later studied Business Management at Cal State Northridge. After graduation he founded Simi Valley Auto Wrecking, where he worked for 16 years. He then founded Amenities Group Company, manufacturing custom soaps and shampoos for hotels. In 1993, he moved with his family to Utah where he served on the board of directors at Deseret Laboratories, which manufactures vitamins and health products.

Dale was a handyman and was known for his ability to fix or build anything. Notable projects include building a log cabin from the ground up, refurbishing multiple rental houses, and restoring vintage cars. Dale retired in 2015 and loved spending time with his children and grandchildren who were the pride and joy of his life. He was known for his wild ties, many of which were made for him by Dori Ann. Dale was cherished by many for his generosity, loyalty, and infectious humor. He will be deeply remembered as a shining example of kindness and joy.

Dale is survived by his wife, Dori Ann; their children: Marc (Stacy) Tharp, Kimberly (Brian) McLaws, David Tharp, Adam (Dominique) Tharp, Anne (Daniel) Adams, Laura (Lincoln) Bench, Paul (Aryn) Tharp, and Jonathan (Lauren) Tharp; 21 grandchildren; brothers: Glen (Lisa) and Gary (Susan); and many lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Glen and Lillian.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in the Bloomington Stake Center, 200 West Brigham Road, St. George, Utah. Visitations will be held Friday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd. and on Saturday prior to services, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at the church. Interment with Military Honors will be held in the St. George City Cemetery located at 600 East Tabernacle Street.

Those who are unable to attend are invited to view the service from the following Zoom link:

https://zoom.us/j/92394712545?pwd=bE5RTVZKYTZpSDZscXI2cG1pa2xOUT09#success

Dale Tharp Funeral Service Program