Robert B Upper

A beloved father, grandfather, son, brother and friend passed away peacefully with family by his side on February 28^th in Bellingham. Robert was born to Stanley and Mary Frances Upper on December 28^th 1941 and was raised alongside his siblings in Whatcom County. Robert graduated from Meridian High School in 1959, and after graduation he enlisted in the Navy, where he was an underwater diver. Robert served in the Navy until 1962 and then in the Naval Reserves until 1965. After his honorable discharge Robert became a certified welder by trade, and he retired from BF Goodrich Aerospace in 2007. After retirement he enjoyed traveling with family visiting Russia and Alaska. Robert enjoyed attending sporting events for his grandchildren, including scouting events for his grandsons and his grandchildren’s graduations. Robert would often play golf with his sons and grandsons and frequently cared for his autistic great-grandson. Robert’s interests were fly-fishing, camping with his children and grandchildren, golf and cooking. Robert’s legacy will be carried on by his adored grandchildren; Erica, Jessica, Kambreea, Andrew, Benjamin, Rebecca, Travis, Brianna and Robert, and his 4 great grandchildren, Morgan, Kianna, Phyre, and Genevieve. Each of them will remember their Papa for the time he spent with them, for attending all their events and for always making them an important part of his life. Whether they knew it or not he was always teaching them about life and the love of family. Robert’s children were his top priority and he always put family first, teaching them the important things in life; to always have a good work ethic, integrity, and the importance of being there for one another. Robert is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Maxwell. Robert’s memory is honored and kept alive by his children, Kimberly (Tim), Steve, Kevin (Racheal), Jodi, his cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren, and by his siblings, Barbara, Kathleen, and Virginia. Robert’s story is one of dedication, love and an unwavering commitment to his family. He will be deeply missed, but the seeds he planted in the hearts of those who knew him will continue to grow and flourish for generations to come. There will be a graveside service on March 8^th at 1:00pm at Enterprise Cemetery in Ferndale, and following the graveside service there will be a Celebration on Life at the Tillicum House at Pioneer Park.