ALBERT THARP
A man defined by service, patience, and a deep commitment to family, community, and the sport of archery.
A Life Of Work and Family
Albert Tharp built his life on dedication, craftsmanship, and care for others. He spent his professional career in construction, working as a carpenter and civil service employee at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, where he eventually retired. Even in retirement, Albert remained active and engaged, never one to sit still for long.
Family was always at the center of Albert’s life. Alongside his wife, Mary, he helped raise three of their grandchildren, opening their home and hearts without hesitation. He spoke often and proudly of Mary, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and he was known for his compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to family.
Dedication to Wyoming Senior Olympics
Albert became involved with Wyoming Senior Olympics around 2011, beginning what would become more than a decade of dedicated service. He served as the Archery Commissioner, a role he carried out with reliability, humility, and a steady presence that others came to depend on.
Whether helping with registration, collecting scorecards, supporting volunteers, or simply ensuring competitions ran smoothly, Albert was always willing to step in where needed. He lived by a simple philosophy that guided both his work and volunteer service:
“If you’re not 15 minutes early to a meeting or job, you’re late!”
That mindset was reflected in everything he did; he was prepared, dependable, and deeply respectful of others’ time.
Athlete & Ambassador for Archery
As an athlete, Albert proudly represented Wyoming Senior Olympics in archery at both the state and national levels. In 2019, he competed at the National Senior Games in Albuquerque, where he placed 13th in archery, an accomplishment he took quiet pride in.
More important than medals or placements was Albert’s passion for the sport itself. He believed in doing archery the right way—safely, patiently, and with respect. Through local archery clubs, city outdoor adventure programs, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts, Albert introduced countless young people to archery. He worked with beginners and experienced youth alike, helping them build confidence, skills, and a love for the sport. His patience and calm instruction left a lasting impression on everyone he taught.
Craftsmanship, Legacy, Partnership
Albert was a lifelong woodworker whose hands were rarely still. He built cradles for newborn grandchildren, dollhouses and barns for young kids, chess boards, bookcases, refinished furniture, and countless other projects for family and friends. One of his most meaningful legacies was crafting over 50 custom fishing poles, ensuring that every child, grandchild, great-grandchild, and even a few “adopted” kids, received one made by him.
Fishing, hunting, woodworking, and mentoring youth were not just hobbies for Albert; they were ways he passed on values, skills, and love.
Behind much of Albert’s success was a true partnership. While he famously carried a flip phone until the very end, Mary handled emails, spreadsheets, registrations, and communications. Albert never hesitated to acknowledge her role, often saying, “Mary will help with that.” Together, they were a team, serving Wyoming Senior Olympics and their community side by side.
Albert Tharp will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, craftsman, and volunteer. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the athletes and youth he guided, and the Wyoming Senior Olympics community he served with pride and integrity.
