Harold Dean Wharton was born on October 19, 1946 to Harold Benjamin and Ruth Elivira (Burchfiel) Wharton in Harper, Kansas.  A lifetime resident of Harper, he passed away at home on July 3, 2018 at the age of 71 years, 8 months, and 14 days.

Growing up in Harper, Dean graduated with the Harper High School class of 1964 and spent a lot of his time helping around the farm.  At a young age, Dean discovered one of his greatest passions: baseball.  He played on and coached many teams, from Harper all the way to Korea.  He umpired for several years, making friends and memories all across Kansas.  Dean went on to be a member of the Harper Rec Board, Little Sunflower League Board, and the National Baseball Congress Hap Dumont Baseball Board – where helping sponsor the Miracle League was a project close to his heart.  In June of 2018, Harper Recreation named the south baseball field Wharton Field in appreciation of all his hard work and dedication to youth sports in Harper.

Dean proudly served his country, entering in the United States Army on March 14, 1968.  He was a Vietnam Era Veteran, serving his country in Korea, earning the Expeditionary Medal and Good Conduct Medal.  He was released from active duty on February 9, 1970 and continued as an Army Reservist.  With the rank of Spec5, Dean was honorably discharged on March 13, 1974.  He was an active member of the Harper VFW, American Legion, and the Kansas Chapter of the Patriot Guard.

Dean was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Harper and the Clearwater Chapter of the Odd Fellows Club.

Preceding Dean in death are his parents, Harold and Ruth Wharton.  He is survived by his children: Benjamin Wharton and companion, Nancy Campbell of Harper and Mary Alice Hatley of Anthony; grandchildren: Carson Clyde Wharton, James Hatley-Rommel, Joshua and Jacob Campbell, and Haley and Hillary Kangas; his sister, Karen Mize and her husband, Bob; nephews: Bryan and Kevin Mize; and other relatives.

Dean will be missed by his family and numerous friends that will never forget his many colorful stories and his flashing smile.

Cremation has taken place.  Friends may register from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday and 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday.

Memorial Service is 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 17, 2018 at Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Harper with Wade Williams officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Harper Recreation Ballfields and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Prairie Rose Funeral Home, 613 W 14th ~ Harper, Kansas 67058 is in charge of the arrangements.