Skip Upton, 70, of Kouts, passed away Saturday, September 4, 2010 at his home.  He was born June 19, 1940 in Valparaiso to James and Mary (Herring) Upton.  Skip graduated from Kouts High School and served in the U.S. Marine Corps.  He was married to the love of his life, Janet Maul, who survives, along with four children who loved him deeply: Kim (Randy) Benham, Terri (Keith) Gingerich, Brian (Lisa) Upton, and Cory Upton.  He is also survived by seven grandchildren whom he cherished and who adored him:  Jacob (Kristie) Krejci, Ashley (Kevin) Stokes, Allisa Connors, Daniel Connors, Olivia  Gingerich, Susannah Gingerich, and Emma Harrison; and three great grandchildren: James and Annabelle Krejci and Anna Stokes.  Also surviving are two brothers, James (Maryann) Upton, Tom (Carolyn) Upton and one sister, Kathy (Bill) Callahan.  He was preceded in death by his parents and one son-in-law, Jerry Saxe.  Skip retired from Bethlehem Steel in 2001 with 35 years of service in the 80 inch hot strip mill.  He enjoyed RVing, golfing, gardening and spending time with his family.  He was everyone’s favorite “Dad, Grandpa and Uncle” and will be remembered as a great man by his family and many dear friends.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday at 11:00 AM at Kosanke Funeral Home in Kouts, Pastor Jay Birky officiating with cremation to follow at Angelcrest Crematory.  Visitation will be Wednesday, 3-8 PM.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society or VNA Hospice of Porter County.