Obituaries

William Frederick Upton

Photo of William Frederick Upton
The Upton family regrets to announce the passing of William F. "Bill" Upton (Ret. Major USAF) on 10 September, 2014 at age 83. He was a loving husband, son, brother, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Born in Windsor, Ontario, Canada on September 27, 1930 he became a US citizen on May 26, 1953. He joined the US Air Force in February of 1948 and served during the Korean and Vietnam wars, retiring from active service as a Major in 1970. After active duty he continued to serve his community as pilot for Arkansas College, now Lyon College. He also worked as an aircraft flight instructor, an air taxi and air ambulance pilot and realtor. He was an active member of the Military Officers Association of America and a former member of the Lions Club where he served as President and the VFW where he served as Post Commander. Later in life he traveled the US and served as volunteer tour guide to numerous state and federal parks. He also enjoyed woodworking and wood crafting. William was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothea and Percy, his sister Peggy and brother Jack. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Catherine, his daughters Linda Lively (David Hord), Paula Puckett (Jeffrey Puckett) and his two sons Mark (Lisa) and Thomas (Gail). He is also survived by his 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren and his extended Canadian family. He will be cremated and there will be a funeral mass at St. Albert's Catholic Church in Heber Springs on 20 September at 10 a.m. followed by his interment at the Cleburne County Memorial Gardens with full military honors. Heber Springs Funeral Service is providing the burial services. The family requests that in lieu of flowers to please make a donation to a charitable organization of your choice. www.heberspringsfuneralhome.com.

Published September 17, 2014

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