- Date Of Birth: August 31, 1943
- Date Of Death: August 27, 2012
- State: Arizona
Charles “Chuck” Upton, 68 of Flagstaff, lost his long battle with dementia on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012.
Mr. Upton was born on Aug. 31, 1943 in Helena, Ark., to Percy and Belva Upton. Upon graduating from Stutgard High School, he traveled across country with his family to Flagstaff where he met his beloved wife, Betty Hood Upton, and enjoyed 49 wonderful years of marriage.
In his early years, Mr. Upton was fortunate to find an opportunity to be an apprentice carpenter under the loving teachings of his adoring in-laws, Ed and Meta Hood. In 1968, he then purchased a local Chevron Service Station where he helped and served our community for many years. Upon the sale of his service station, he became the service manager for Tyrell Chevrolet and continued helping people as the service manager with the McCoy family business, where he worked until his retirement. He also supported the love of his life as co-owner of Cunningham’s Interiors for more than 28 years.
Mr. Upton was an avid hunter and outdoors-man who enjoyed time with his wife and family boating at Lake Powell, traveling in his RV, fishing the many lakes of Arizona, as well as, building and racing sand rails around northern Arizona and California. He was involved in many community activities including the Civitan Foundation helping the developmentally disabled, ham radio communications, Corvair Club, Route 66 Car Club and spending mornings with his cherished coffee group. He was also a devoted Northern Arizona University sports supporter and Skyjack member.
He dedicated many years to volunteering with the American Red Cross, presiding as the first president of the Gasoline Retailers Association, and serving as a reserve police officer for the City of Flagstaff, rising in the ranks to Captain.
Mr. Upton is survived by his loving wife Betty; daughters Melissa (Kenny) List and Melinda Upton (Mark Brown); sister Barbara Gomez (Ron Goats); grandchildren Chelsea Grissim, Matthew List, Tyler List, Brooke Bohlender, Ariel Bohlender; great-granddaughters Andra and Antoinette; sister-in-law Marilyn (Bob) Gerkey of Tucson and eight nieces and nephews.
Mr. Upton is preceded in death by his parents, brother Kenneth (Kay) Upton. Mr. Upton will be remembered as a loving brother, husband, father, grandfather and dedicated friend. The family wishes to thank the staff of Heritage House and Hospice Compassus for all of their exceptional loving care and kindness.
