As I stepped into Bob Wharton’s cozy apartment sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating a room filled with photos, mementos, and an energy that could only belong to someone who has lived a century and two. It was the perfect setting for a conversation with a man whose life stories could fill a book—if not an entire library.
Bob, who recently celebrated his 102nd birthday, sat comfortably in his favorite chair, a twinkle in his eye that belied his age. Beside him was his daughter, Nancy McCulloch, who radiated with pride, and Janet Ballard, the community liaison for Right at Home In-Home Health Care, whose smile could brighten the dreariest of days. Their bond was palpable, woven together through shared experiences and a commitment to care that transcended mere duty.
As I settled into a chair opposite Bob, I was struck by the warmth of the space around me. It was a testament to a life well-lived. Nancy had invited Janet into their lives earlier this year when she sought help for her father, who had fallen ill. A confusing maze of eligibility had left them feeling lost—Bob, a merchant marine, had been told he didn’t qualify for home health care services. But Janet, with the tenacity of a seasoned educator, was ready to set the record straight.
“I knew the information they received was incorrect,” Janet explained, her passion evident. “It took less than five weeks, and we had VA coverage for Bob. Up to 44 hours a week of care. He deserved it.”
Bob nodded, his laughter filling the room as he recounted a vivid memory from his time as a merchant marine during World War II. “No one really knows what a merchant marine is,” he said, leaning forward. “We were formed under the Roosevelt administration, responsible for transporting supplies during the war. We lost more men percentage-wise than any other branch. It was a dangerous job.”
He recalled a mission to Brazil where they were tasked with delivering cement. “They sent three ships, expecting only one to make it. All three survived!” He chuckled, his laughter infectious. “Then we had too much cement, and no one knew what to do with it!”
His recollections were punctuated by a sense of humor that only someone who has seen so much could possess. It was clear that the spirit of camaraderie he experienced as a young man still resided within him, thriving alongside his cherished memories.
Born in Jackson, Mississippi, Bob was no stranger to hard work. By the age of nine, he was delivering newspapers to help support his family. “I promised my aunt and uncle I would graduate,” he recalled, eyes gleaming with determination. “So I got up at 4 a.m. to deliver papers, went to school, then worked at the key shop.” He was indeed determined.
After completing his time in the Merchant Marines, Bob began a 37-year career with Otis Elevators, eventually relocating to Texas in 1953. He retired on April Fool’s Day in 1983. “It was no joke,” he laughed, the joy of life radiating from him. His proudest achievement? Outliving his working years. “I’ve been retired longer than I worked!”
As I listened to Nancy speak about her father, her admiration was undeniable. “If I could be like anybody, I’d want to be like him,” she said, her eyes glistening. Bob quipped, “That’d be a terrible thing,” and we all burst into laughter.
At 102, Bob still boasts an active lifestyle, though he jokes that his favorite activity is now “sleeping.” Nancy recounted a time when she had to scold him for climbing on the roof at age 92. “He’s got spirit, that’s for sure!” she said, shaking her head with a smile.
In 2014, Bob faced a heart attack after a workout, ironically leaving a hospital gym. “I died,” he said matter-of-factly. But that was not to be the end of Bob's story. Only a few weeks later, he walked his granddaughter down the aisle.
I was honored to read a heartfelt letter from his granddaughter, Amy, written as Bob approached his recent birthday. In it, she expressed the impact he had on her life, lovingly addressing him as “Poppy.” “I will never be ready for you to leave, but if you have to go, I expect you to become my mischievous guardian angel,” she wrote. The letter, he shared, sits near him, a treasured reminder of the love that surrounds him.
As I wrapped up my conversation with this remarkable family, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by Bob’s secret to longevity: “Always stay positive and upbeat, with a sense of humor.” His life is a testament to resilience, hard work, and love—a legacy that will undoubtedly continue through Nancy, her brother, Eric and their children for generations to come.
Janet’s advocacy for Bob’s story felt like a celebration, a way to honor not just his life, but the connections formed through community and care. As Veterans Day approaches, we all have the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by heroes like Bob.
In a world that sometimes feels heavy, Bob Wharton’s laughter and wisdom remind us to cherish each moment. After all, life is meant to be celebrated, one laugh at a time.
If you or a loved one needs assistance navigating Home Health Care or Veterans benefits reach out to Janet Ballard with Right at Home by phone at 214-732-4082 or by email at Community@rahdfw.com.