Charles Robert "Charlie" Wharton IV

Charles Robert Wharton IV, known to all as Charlie, age 60 of Sunbury, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly at his home on March 11, 2026. Born on September 30, 1965, in Columbus, Ohio, he was the son of Charles Robert Wharton III and Donna Wharton. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents Charles and Helen Wharton Jr. and John and Mary Hammond.

Charlie grew up in north Columbus and graduated from Brookhaven High School and East Career Center in 1985. A lifelong car enthusiast and skilled mechanic, he began tinkering with engines at a young age, even building a dune buggy while still in high school. He worked for AC Delco for 19 years, Koosen Fire & Security for five years, and most recently at Car Supply for 10 years, always working hard to provide for his family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Teresa Hagan Wharton, with whom he shared 43 years of love. He leaves behind his children, Kyle, Mary, and Ryan Wharton; his sister, Brenda Wharton Gardner; his brother, Don Wharton; his uncle, Dave Wharton (Marianne); and many cousins. Charlie cherished his best friend, Bart Orcutt, and his extended family, including sisters-in-law Michelle Hagan (Steve Hub) and Melessa Hagan Norcross (Donald Norcross), nieces and nephews Phillip (Sarah) Norcross, Angela Norcross, Ben (Kaitlyn) Norcross, and Kay Norcross Worden (Khristopher), as well as great-nephew Everett Norcross and great-nieces Haley Worden and Penelope Norcross.

A devoted husband, he and Teresa enjoyed riding his Harley together with friends, participating in charity rides, ballroom dancing, camping, fishing, and annual Valentine’s Day trips to “the Castle.” He was an avid NASCAR fan, a passionate supporter of Ohio State football, and loved heavy metal, classic rock, and country music, often singing along with a ready laugh. Above all, Charlie had a big heart and loved his family deeply. He will be remembered for his loving and caring spirit by all who knew him.