Mr. John "Bernie" Upchurch's Obituary
John B. “Bernie” Upchurch went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus on March 31, 2020, after a lingering illness. He was born June 19, 1925 in Harrisburg, IL to John and Elizabeth (Erkman) Upchurch. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of Ernestine. They were married for 55 years. He was also preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and three sisters. Bernie is survived by his two daughters, Cindy (Larry) Schuitema and Sandy Gabris; 4 grandchildren, Tim (Laura) Schuitema, Nick Schuitema, Keith Gabris, Amanda (John) McDonald; three great-grandchildren, Brittany, Connor and Fisher Schuitema; and special friend, Janet Bailey. Bernie served proudly in WWII in the U.S. Navy. He was one of the few WWII veterans still living. He loved to hunt, fish, watch his grandchildren play sports, and going to the casino. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him. A private family service is planned at this time. Military honors will take place at Norton Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer/Dementia Foundation. Arrangements by the Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441.
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