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Geoffrey Arthur Eric
Upperton
May 18, 1943 — Oct 27, 2026
Mesa, Arizona
Saturday
Pilgrim Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Church
Starts at 10:00 am (Eastern time)
Geoffrey Arthur Eric Upperton, aged 83, passed away on October 27, 2026, in Suffolk, VA. Born in England on May 18, 1943, Geoffrey lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, service, and a passion for family, community, and sport.
After serving his country with honor in the British Royal Navy, Geoff was a union rigger at CEGB power plant in Shoreham Harbour, England. Geoff moved to America in 1979 where he worked as a machinist at Beloit Corporation. In 1984 Geoff embarked on a distinguished career as an Administrator for the State of Wisconsin, where he specialized in employment and training for dislocated workers. Following his retirement in 2008, he and his wife Karen moved to Brighthaven Senior Community in Mesa, AZ where they were active and cherished members.
A true sports enthusiast, Geoff was particularly fond of soccer and golf. Having played soccer in England, he carried this love forward into coaching youth and students at Beloit College. His enthusiasm for technology made him a whiz with computers, a skill he generously shared with those around him. Geoff was also deeply involved in their senior community as the treasurer of the entertainment committee and organized numerous enjoyable events that brought people together.
Towards the end of his life, Geoff found great comfort in the promises of God. Confident that he was made a child of God at this baptism, Geoff clung to the fact that Jesus Christ gave his body and poured out his blood for the sins of the whole world–certainly for him. Confident in the resurrection of Jesus, Geoff knew and believed that he too will live forever–and he does! He was a devoted member of Pilgrim Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mesa, AZ, and took pride in his membership with the Royal British Legion.
Geoff is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Kenny and Ivy Upperton; his son, Mark Upperton; and his sister, Maureen. He is survived by his loving wife together for 39 years, Karen Faye Upperton, mother-in-law Helen Simpsen; sisters and brothers in law, Nancy and Charlie Hoch, Betty and Dave Morgan, and Denise and Phil Stenstrum as well as numerous nieces and nephews who treasured his presence in their lives.
A Christian Victory Celebration will be held on Saturday, November 7 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Pilgrim Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Church, 3257 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213, with Rev. Peter Zaferos officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church. Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.
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