Barrett "Bear" Todd Wharton

Barrett “Bear” Wharton departed this life, Saturday, January 6, 2018. He began his sojourn in Berkeley California, 49 years ago, and ended it quietly in Disputanta, VA. He left too soon for his family, who will miss him greatly. He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Susie; his father, Bob; his loving children, Adam, Heather, Sarah, and Caleb, their spouses and children, and Maleki and Arden. He also leaves behind a sister, Lori, and a brother, Jeff, along with their spouses and children. A total of 10 grandchildren, with 2 coming that will not have the chance to know that each one was precious to Grampa Bear. Bear was a lifelong teacher, formally teaching history and political science--the subjects he had chosen for his academic training and the trade of diesel and marine mechanics that he learned along the way. His colleagues in the corporate world called him Mr. Wizard, as there was never a mechanical problem he could not magically solve. His “Indiana Jones” would surface when he spoke of his archaeological finds and experiences. A lover of history, politics, trains, and all things Disney, he was always ready to share his thoughts and passions. If he could entice a grandchild, or five, to go to see trains or boats or cars or Disney world, he was a happy guy. He loved to putter about his farm, see the fruits and veggies of his labors; go to a Buffet concert or downeast for a lobster roll and homeschool his best guy. He will leave a great chasm, but as he was fond of saying—“It is what it is”. The family will receive friends who wish to bid him farewell from 3:00 to 4:00 PM on Friday, January 12, 2018 at Gregory Memorial Presbyterian Church, 6300 Courthouse Rd, Prince George, VA, 23875. A funeral service will be conducted there, by Rev. Jason Cashing, at 4:00 PM followed by a reception in the church hall for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com .