Mike Upton, Jr.

Through the life of Mike Upton, Jr., we are reminded that each new day is a gift to be unwrapped, filled with opportunities to spread beauty or ashes in the world around us. Mike was an inspiration to all who knew him as the choices he made reflected his unwavering courage, unending strength, and unconditional love for his family and friends. He was the sort of man who could be stubborn and bossy when he felt passionately about something, yet his heart was as big as they come. Mike’s journey was laced with challenges, but he rarely complained about the hand he was dealt. A devoted son, brother, uncle, and friend, he will be dearly missed and warmly remembered.

The 1970s were a pivotal time in our nation’s history as there was a growing disillusionment of government, advances in both civil rights and women’s rights, and a heightened concern for the environment. Mood rings, lava lamps, and pet rocks were part of the cultural fabric while movies like Rocky and Star Wars drew crowds to theaters in record numbers. It was as this decade was drawing to a close that a young couple from Maple Rapids, Michigan, was delighted to welcome a baby boy into their hearts and home. Mike was the only child born to his parents, Mike Upton, Sr. and Debbie (Lobsinger) Shook, until his sister Billi joined the family when he was six years old. Although he was enamored with her at first, it was only a short time before he asked if they could take her back! Later, Mike became part of a blended family that gave him 10 siblings. During his youngest years his father worked at a local sawmill while his mother focused her attention on caring for her family.

When he was just eight months old Mike was diagnosed with cystinosis, which is a disease that causes the body to begin crystalizing organs. Because the kidneys are often one of the most affected organs, Mike needed a kidney transplant by the time he was eight years old. His father willingly donated a kidney, and his illness caused him to remain small in stature throughout his life.

Family played an integral part in Mike’s life along his entire journey. His brothers liked taking him to the movies as often as time allowed. Mike’s siblings deeply respected him and learned what the true meaning of compassion is through loving him. He loved being Uncle Mike to his several nieces and nephews, and together they always had so much fun.

Although he had his health struggles, Mike’s life was reflective of his generation in so many ways. He attended Fulton Schools and played basketball in high school. Like so many other young people, Mike desperately craved the freedom that came with driving. He always wanted a Mustang, too, so imagine his sheer joy when this dream actually came to fruition! Mike’s father was less than thrilled, however, when he spent countless hours pulling his son out of ditches as the car was rear wheel drive.

After graduating from high school Mike found work at Dewey’s Trading Post for a time before getting a job at Meijer. He worked his way up the ladder there, eventually being put in charge of other cashiers.

Throughout his life Mike was a man of many interests. He gained the nickname “Hollywood” because he always wore his signature sunny glasses. Mike was an avid sports fan who loved following some of his home teams including his beloved Detroit Tigers and the University of Michigan. He also enjoyed watching WWE on television.

Along with Mike’s health challenges came numerous days in the hospital. On his 21st birthday he was diagnosed with diabetes, which had a significant impact on the rest of his life. Mike also suffered a stroke in 2006, but he fought hard to recover to the best of his ability, providing us all with much to aspire for. It was just prior to his stroke that he came to accept the Lord as his savior.

Accompanied by a resilient spirit and deep love for his family, Mike Upton, Jr. was a genuine blessing in the lives of those around him. He rarely felt sorry for himself, rather he focused on enjoying each and every day he was given. Through Mike we learned that the things of this world are only temporary, and his family finds comfort in knowing that he is experiencing perfect health in his eternal home. Although he will be deeply missed, his memory will remain forever near and dear to the hearts of all those within his reach.

Mike W. Upton, Jr. died on November 19, 2012. Mike’s family includes his parents, Debbie (Gary) Shook and Mike (Dena) Upton, Sr.; siblings, Rob Shook, Billi (Nic) Ney, Aubree (Jason) Akers, Rikki Shook, Tyler (Laura) Shook, Weston Shook, Spencer Shook, Nathan (Christina) Upton, Adam (Liz) Upton, and Jordan (Peggy Bigelow) Upton; nieces and nephews, Lilith, Dameon and Kayla Upton, Makayla, Carter, and Addyson Ney, Brooklyn Kanous, Macie and Bryn Akers; and grandmothers, Carol Grubaugh and Virginia Green. Mike was preceded in death by his stepfather, William Bancroft, uncle, Rick Lobsinger, and his grandparents, Woodrow and Virginia Upton and John Green. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 21, 2012, at the Maple Rapids Congregational Christian Church, with Pastor Kissling officiating. Burial will follow the service at Eureka Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, from 2-4 p.m. & 6-8 p.m., at the Osgood Funeral Home, 104 E. Cass St., St. Johns. To learn more about Mike and to view his Life Story film, please visit his personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com/memories/84862. Memorial donations may be made to the Maple Rapids Congregational Christian Church.