Michael C. Upshaw

Michael C. Upshaw, 64, Rockford, died on July 6, 2012 in Swedish American Hospital surrounded by loving family members.Born August 18, 1947 in Smyrna, GA, son of McAllister and Nancy (Jenks) Upshaw. He attended Michigan State University and graduated from Colorado Technical University. Married Deni Lundberg on June 17, 1989.He retired as Quality Manager from Rockford Process Control in 2011.Michael was a devoted husband, a caring father and a doting grandfather to his many grandkids; he made each grandchild feel special and important.He was a man of character, integrity and high standards.In addition to his profession as an engineer, Michael was a gifted handyman and could troubleshoot just about any household problem.A seeker of knowledge, Michael relished a good debate and welcomed any kind of challenge to conventional wisdom.He pursued a college education long after he was successful in manufacturing, and was proud of his degree that came later in life.Known for his sense of humor, Michael had an infectious laugh that could fill a room.He also loved a good cigar and glass of specialty beer or fine wine. Survivors include his wife, Deni; daughters, Shannon (Paul) Kobe and Heather Upshaw; grandchildren, Christopher Upshaw, Paul Albert Kobe, Ethan Reppuhn and Keira Reppuhn; stepchildren, Debbie (Doug) Gass, Denise Campbell and Paul (Jennifer) Lundberg; stepgrandchildren, Rachael and Sarah Gass, Zachary Sydney and Kennedy Campbell, Bryan Keller, Katherine, Savannah and Xavier Lundberg: 2 greatgrandchildren, his sister, Anne Upshaw and close friends, Bea and Leonard Boomhower who were like parents to him. Predeceased by his parents and his brother, Anthony.The family would like to thank Dr. William Edwards and the Cancer Treatment Center of American for the wonderful encouragement and care that was given to Michael throughout his illness.A celebration of Michaels life will be on Saturday, July 21, 2012 from 3:305:30 p.m. in Nicholas Conservatory.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Assistance In Health Care, c/o Cancer Treatment Center of American, 2520 Elisha, Zion, IL 60099 or to Crohns and Colitis Foundation of American, National Processing Center, Att: Honor and Memorial Gifts, PO Box 7245, Albert Lea, MN 56007.The family was assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd.