Elizabeth V. Upton Obituary
Elizabeth V. Upton lived an extraordinary life, but nothing meant more to her than the people she loved. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Elizabeth filled the lives of those around her with laughter, wisdom, generosity, and unforgettable stories. Endlessly curious, fiercely opinionated, and blessed with an unmistakable sense of humor, she was unapologetically herself, inspiring others to embrace life with the same conviction and joy.
An avid reader and lifelong lover of literature and the arts, Elizabeth held one poem particularly close to her heart: The Touch of the Master’s Hand by Myra Brooks Welch. She memorized it and recited it year after year, drawn to its story of an old violin whose hidden beauty was revealed through the hands of a master musician. Its message of faith, compassion, and the transformative power of love reflected not only what Elizabeth believed, but how she lived.
In handwritten reflections on her own life, Elizabeth declared, “Family comes 1st all through my life!” She lived those words wholeheartedly. For 71 years, she shared a remarkable marriage with her husband, Stephen E. Upton. Together, they raised five children and created a home rich in laughter, adventure, and lasting traditions. Animals were always part of their world, with several horses and 21 dogs, nearly all golden retrievers, over the years. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren could always count on her encouragement and unwavering support.
From her days representing the University of Michigan at the Rose Bowl to arriving at a grandchild’s rehearsal dinner dressed in a horse costume, Elizabeth never missed an opportunity to have a little fun. Her toasts could rouse an entire room, and nearly everyone who knew her could recall a favorite Elizabeth expression, an unexpected adventure, or a piece of wisdom delivered in her singular voice. Yet for all her spirited candor, she was equally thoughtful with the written word. In her beautiful, nearly perfect cursive, she penned thousands of letters, sharing stories and reminding family and friends just how much they meant to her.
Reflecting on her childhood, Elizabeth wrote, “My father tried to educate me and my mother was in charge of music and fun!” With an accomplished violinist for a mother and a father who encouraged her curiosity, Elizabeth developed a lifelong appreciation for learning, history, travel, theater, and the arts. A longtime season ticket holder of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, she shared her love of music with her children, ensuring each learned an instrument. She also created opportunities for young musicians at Interlochen Center for the Arts by establishing a violin scholarship in honor of her mother and supporting the creation of the Upton-Morley Pavilion. Determined to preserve her mother’s treasured violin, she worked with the Becker Family Foundation to loan the instrument to promising young musicians.
Elizabeth’s Christian faith remained a guiding presence. She cherished her church communities, particularly First Congregational Church in St. Joseph, Michigan, and St. Simons Presbyterian Church in St. Simons Island, Georgia. In 2003, she compiled stories from her life into a book titled I Have Magic in My Life!, dedicated to her grandchildren. On its opening page, she reflected on God’s presence: “He has always been there for me – even when I was unaware of His presence!”
Elizabeth gave generously and often anonymously, with little interest in recognition. Together, she and Stephen welcomed foster children into their home for many years, offering care and stability until they could join permanent families. An original board member and generous benefactor of Curious Kids’ Museum and the Readiness Center, she championed children’s education and discovery. She spent years delivering meals for Meals on Wheels and supported organizations devoted to music, education, children, and families in need.
In the poem she treasured, the violin’s true worth was there all along; it simply took the master’s hand to reveal it. Elizabeth carried that same belief throughout her life, recognizing promise in others and finding ways to help them flourish. And like the music she loved so dearly, the love she gave will continue to resonate for generations.
After 71 years of marriage and shared adventures, there is comfort in knowing Elizabeth is reunited in heaven with her beloved Stephen. And if heaven was peaceful before her arrival, one can only imagine it is now a little livelier, a little louder, and filled with a great deal more laughter.
She lived fully. She loved fiercely. And she left us all with stories worth telling.
Thank you for the magic, Elizabeth.
Elizabeth V. Upton, 97, of St. Joseph, Michigan, passed away on October 21, 2026, in St. Joseph. She was born on September 29, 1929, in La Grange, Illinois, to Charles H. Vial and Margaret Tyler Vial.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Stephen E. Upton; her parents; her brother, George; and her sister, Laura.
She is survived by her five children: Fred (Amey), Charles (Pat), Michael (Kim), Elizabeth (Mark Bartels), and Jefferson; 17 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.
A celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be held on November 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2001 Niles Ave., St. Joseph, Michigan with Pastor Jeffrey Hubers officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Becker Family Foundation, Curious Kids’ Museum, Interlochen Center for the Arts, and Lory’s Place, honoring her lifelong commitment to music, education, children, and service to others. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com
