Manny Tharp

West Des Moines

Manny Tharp, 76, passed away suddenly on July 18, 2015. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Friday, July 24, 2015 at West Des Moines United Methodist Church. Following the service, everyone is invited to the Des Moines Golf and Country Club for a time of food and fellowship.

Manny was born August 26, 1938 in Oskaloosa, IA and grew up on a farm. After graduating from Oskaloosa High School, he went to the University of Iowa and graduated from Drake University. In 1959, he married his high school sweetheart, Ava Ann Stephenson.

Manny had a very successful career in insurance beginning with INA Life in 1965. Manny earned the INA Life Citation Award twice and later earned the National Chairman’s Award from Penn Mutual. In 1990, Manny and Ann saw an opportunity with the Subway franchise. There began another career.

Manny was an active member of Des Moines Golf and Country Club and served on the board. He was also a member of Tonto Verde Country Club in AZ where he and Ann wintered. Manny was a member of the West Des Moines United Methodist Church. He enjoyed playing golf and cards, spending time with family and friends, as well as watching “winning” Hawkeye sports.

Manny was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 56 years, Ann. Manny is survived by his children, Jan Gute, Julie (Dave) Wise and Joel (Devorah) Tharp; grandchildren, John (Kesha) Gute, Ann (Dave) Alberts, Steve (Abby) Gute, Emily Wise, Elizabeth and Jackson Tharp. Manny was blessed with four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jerry Tharp.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Sunshine Acres Children’s Home in Mesa, AZ, VerdeCares, Inc. in Rio Verde, AZ or a charity of your choice.