Robert E. Wharton, 94, Fairbury, died at 3:45 pm Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury.

His funeral will be at 10:00 am Monday, July 22, 2019 at the First Presbyterian Church Fairbury with Pastor Dan Robertson officiating.  Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury where full military rites will be accorded by the Fairbury American Legion and VFW posts.

Visitation will be 2:00 to 5:00 pm Sunday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury.  The family suggests memorials be given to the John Joda American Legion; Fairbury Speedway; or Fairview Haven Retirement Community.

Bob was born October 6, 1924 in Chicago, IL the son of Van O. and Esther Williams Wharton.  He married Betty L. Travis on September 25, 1949 in Fairbury.  She preceded him in death on March 26, 2013.

Survivors include one daughter, Deborah Ann Augsburger, one son, Robert V. Wharton, both of Fairbury, grandchildren, Benjamin Wharton, Jodi (Ryan Brunson) Wharton, Matthew (Jayme) Curl, and Jeffery (Bridget) Curl, great grandchildren, Cole Shawback, Dany and Sydnee Wharton, Katy, Tyler, Ellie and Jesslyn Curl, one brother, James (Elizabeth) Wharton, Fairbury.

He is preceded in death by one brother, William "Bill" Wharton.

Bob was proud to have served his country.  He enlisted in the Army in 1942 and served at Anzio Beach, Italy during WWII being discharged in 1945.  He was the past commander of the John Joda American Legion Post #54, a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Fairbury having been a deacon and usher.  He loved stock car racing, rebuilding old cars and was an avid Ford fan.  He enjoyed camping and traveling but most of all he cherished his time spent with family and friends.