William John Wharton

William John Wharton, age 94, formerly of Shelby, died Monday, May 2, 2011 at the home of his granddaughter, Jennifer and Michael Blackledge of Ashland, with whom he had resided the past four years.

He was born June 22, 1916 in Mansfield, the son of the late H.B. and Bertha (McManus) Wharton. Mr. Wharton was an Army veteran of WWII where he was in the signal corps. A real patriot, Bill loved his country and was very proud to be an American and of his military service. Bill was a retired employee of the Shelby Post Office, farmed and raised sheep. He was a quiet, gentle and very giving man and enjoyed his last few years in the care of his family. He was a life member of Shelby American Legion O’Brien Post and Veterans of Foreign Wars George Broderick Post. He was a former member of Ganges Grange. Bill enjoyed fishing, woodworking and working in the yard. His favorite past time was watching baseball – did not matter who was playing.

Bill is survived by his children: Roger (Mardell) Wharton of Shenandoah and Louise (Timothy) Clingan) of Mansfield; his grandchildren: Jennifer (Michael) Blackledge, Victoria Cruz, Kristina Wharton, Amber (David) Nead, Miranda Wharton; 7 great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife: Nadine L. (Kerr) Wharton in 1994; 3 brothers: Clifford, Hulbert, and Robert Wharton; 3 sisters: Martha Morehead, Esther Stover, and LaDonna Cooper.

Friends may call on Thursday May 5, 2011 from 6-8 PM at the Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where funeral services will be conducted at 10 AM Friday by his grandson Michael Blackledge. Burial will be in Franklin Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail. Memorials may be made to Hospice of North Central Ohio, 1050 Dauch Drive, Ashland, Ohio 44805. On-line condolences at
penwellturner.com