Rodney “Rod” Upton, age 88, of Fort Mohave, AZ, died peacefully on Thursday, July 18, 2024.
Rod was born on Jan. 11, 1936, in Bradley. He graduated from high school as an All-State Football player and Eagle Scout in Webster. After attending Annapolis and then Augustana College on a football scholarship he joined the Air Force.
After spending a tour as a jet fighter instructor and flight examiner, Rod left the Air Force as a Captain and went to work for Northwest Airlines as a pilot. Rod was actively involved in community organizations and was a member of the Eagles, Masons, Shrine, and was a past commander of the American Legion. Rod was an avid poker player and enjoyed tracing the family ancestry.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rodney Earl and Lillian Upton; brother Kaye; sister Connie; sons Zachary and Rhett; granddaughter Amanda and brothers-in-law, Leo and Larry Becht.
He is survived by his second wife Joanne; his sons Duque (Melissa) and Courtney (Nancy); daughter Robynn (David); stepchildren Jamie (Chris), Joeseph (Erin) and Jeri (Don); brother Buzz; sisters Barbara, Rochelle and Jill. Additionally, Rod is survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.