Manton - Ronald Lee Uptegraft Sr., longtime resident of Manton, passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2017 at his home with family by his side. He was 83.

Ron was born, the youngest of 14 children, on December 15, 1933, in Cadillac, Michigan to Charles and Caroline (Hall) Uptegraft.  He spent his childhood years working the family farm near Lucas, before answering the call of duty and served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. Ron served as a Master Sergeant (E7). He also served during Korean, Vietnam War, and Bay of Pigs.

He met and married the former Iva Lou Ostrander in 1954, celebrating 63 years together. The couple made their home in Manton where they raised their family of five children.

After his eventual retirement from the Air Force, Ron made his living working with Cadillac Industrial Supply, Northwood, Four Winns, and Kysor until his retirement.

Ron could often be found traveling around the country with a RV with Iva. He enjoyed playing pool, playing golf, and doing Sudoku.

Ronald is survived by his wife, Iva of Manton; his five children, Ronda Uptegraft of Manton, Rita (Louis) Sanchez of Corpus Christi, TX, Ronald (Maggie) Uptegraft Jr. of Manton, Roger (Kana) Uptegraft of Panama City, FL, and Robert (Kelly) Uptegraft of Manton; five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, as well as many other loving family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings.

Funeral services will take place at 1:00 pm on Friday, July 21, 2017 at the Hall-Holdship Funeral Home in Manton, with visitation one hour prior. Interment and committal services will follow at the Fairview Cemetery in Manton, with military honors under the auspices of the Cadillac Area Honor Guard. 

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in care of Iva Uptegraft.

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