Tharen was known for her lively, spirited and sassy personality and her personal motto, "If it's not my way, I don't wanna play." On the other hand, Tharen was also known to be quick to help others in need, which was reflected in her long career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), plus caring for other family and friends.
Outside of caring for others, she was a passionate crocheter. She made countless numbers of afghans for family, friends, and patients at the Fresno VA Hospital without asking for anything in return.
Tharen was also known by many for her collections of angels, jewelry, shoes, salt and pepper shakers, and most of all, her collection of over 300 dolls that she accumulated over several years.
Tharen was married to Will Dietrich Burton (U.S. Air Force, Retired) when she was 19 years old up until he died in 1999. Tharen traveled the United States and Europe during his military career, eventually coming back to The States and settling in California in 1967. During this time of traveling, they had six children: Tracena Inez Burton- Born in Iowa (deceased); Kirk Dietrich Burton - Born in Kansas; Veronica Jay (Burton) Singleton - Born in England; Jacqueline Ann (Burton) Watkins - Born in England; Michael Duyane Burton - Born in England, then travel to Germany and back to the United States before the birth of Angelia Rose (Burton) Soderholm - Born in South Carolina.
In addition to her five children, Tharen is survived by 14 grandchildren, of which she was a very significant role in their upbringing (Anthony, Charnee and James), 9 great-grandchildren, other family and friends.
A Graveside service for Tharen will be held Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at Fresno Memorial Gardens, 175 South Cornelia Avenue, Fresno, California 93706.
