Donald Upman

Don Upman was a likable man. He made many friends over the years, having a great knack for being a people person, and used his god-given talents that will be fondly remembered. The year 1931 saw difficult days as the Great Depression created a jobless rate of almost four million. Even so, Americans were attempting to look on the bright side of the times. In Muskegon, Michigan, Walter and Marian (Todd) Upman were not only looking on the bright side of things, but also welcomed the birth of their son, Donald Walter, on March 21. Don grew up in North Muskegon, where he played the saxophone in the school band, developing a lifelong love for jazz. After graduating from North Muskegon High School he went on to Michigan State University where he earned a degree in Business. He later served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955, where he put his musical talents to use as a member of the Army Band. Along the way Don met a young girl named Dolores, and they later married. Together they had two sons, Michael and Mark, and a daughter Cynthia, who sadly died as an infant. Eventually, their marriage ended in divorce. A degree in business, musical talent, and his uncanny way with people, was all it took for Don to put life together. His passion for jazz, and his saxophone, gave him opportunity to play with The Tiny Piper Band, that played at local dances and parties. And Don was just the type of man suited for his career. He worked as an independent sales representative for various companies, mainly restaurant and food supply businesses, and even designed placemats and napkins, as well. He was a great salesman, and quite likeable. Don was known for his trademark, a Tootsie Pop sucker. When calling on a client, Don always had a Tootsie Pop to hand out! He had a great memory, too, always remembering special days in the lives of those around him. Don would call to let them know he was thinking of them, with his toot from a horn. Dons daughter-in-law looked forward to Dons call every year with his, birthday toot. Don loved to socialize. He was always on the go; going someplace, to see someone. He was a regular on his high school reunion committee and even after retiring in 2001, he kept his routine visiting with former customers. On any given day, Don might have breakfast with someone, maybe at Toast and Jams in Muskegon, have lunch with someone else in Grand Haven, and dine with yet someone else, somewhere in Grand Rapids! The next day, he would do it all over again, at different places, with different people! Even after some medical issues with his heart a few years ago, Don recovered, and kept up his pace. The years afforded Don many special friendships, and his companionship with Marilyn Canute lasted for nearly 20 years. Dons health took a turn for the worse last week, and sadly, Don died a short time later. Don Upman had great knack with people. His god-given talents served him well throughout his life. He loved and enjoyed his family, and had a world of friends. Don will be greatly missed, and fondly remembered. Mr. Donald W. Upman, age 77, delivered his last Tootsie Pop on Monday, December 15, 2008. Don is survived by sons, Michael (Paula) Upman, Mark (Kathi) Upman, both of Muskegon; grandchildren, Karl, Andrew and Mary Upman, Abbi (Brian) Kaiser, and Kyl Wansten; dear friend, Marilyn Canute, and her extended family. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Cynthia; brother, Jerry Upman; parents. A Farewell Celebration of Don's life will be held at Fricano's-Muskegon Lake, 1050 W. Western Ave., Friday, December 19, 2008, 1-3 PM. Interment at Laketon Township Cemetery at a later date. MEMORIAL: WBLV Radio. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a memory or sign Dons online guest book.