Howard Tharpe, 70 of Cottage Grove, OR passed away on March 2, 2019.  He was born on July 6, 1948 in Los Angeles, CA to parents Howard S. and Anna Belle (Rickabaugh) Tharpe.  Howard married Susan Cary on July 4, 1987.  Howard made his career as an accomplished and talented artist; painting billboards, signs and murals.  He worked for Universal Studios, Obie Media, King Retail Solution and as an independent painter.  He painted murals all over Los Angeles, CA; including the official 84’ Olympics signs, and numerous supermarket murals.  Locally, his most famous art pieces are the Buster Keaton mural on the Cottage Grove Hotel, the Opal Whitely mural in the All American City Square and the mural on the south side of the Flower Basket in addition to various business signs.  He was a member of Gideon’s International.  Howard enjoyed treasure hunting, metal detecting, playing guitar and was the ultimate conspiracy theorist.  He loved and adored his children and grandchildren.  His presence filled a room with love, confidence and generosity.  He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Susan Tharpe; daughters, Nicole Polakowski, Katlyn Tharpe, Emily Tharpe, Corrie, Buffy and Sarah; sons, Jonathan Tharpe and Michael Tharpe; brother, Jim Tharpe and 7 grandchildren.  A private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements in the care of Smith Lund Mills Funeral Chapel, Cottage Grove, OR.