James Townley Upjohn, 82 years, of Monroe, MI passed away on Wednesday, August 10, 2011 in Monroe.
Born September 14, 1928 in San Diego, CA, Jim was the son of the late James Robert and Margaret (Osler) Upjohn. A 1948 graduate of Webb School in Bell Buckle, TN, Jim continued his education at Albion College in Michigan.
On August 16, 1958 Jim married his wife the former Elinor J. McLaren in Detroit.
Jim worked as an industrial salesman for Economics Laboratory and then for Man – Gill Chemicals. For many years Jim received recognition as a nationally ranked salesman. Jim retired in 1996.
Jim was a life-long member of the First Presbyterian Church in Monroe where he served as both a Deacon and as a member of the board of trustees. He also served as a Campfire Girls board member. Jim enjoyed traveling, sailing, ice boating, and fishing. Most of all Jim enjoyed spending time with Elinor, his immediate and extended family at their cottage.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 53 years, Elinor, three loving daughters; Heather E. (Ardwight Chamberlain) Upjohn of Los Angeles, CA, Jennifer A. (Mark) Quarantiello of Newburyport, MA, and Janet C. Upjohn of Los Angeles, CA, seven grandchildren; Rebecca, Gabriela, Huntley, Ava, Gleeson, Isaac, and Stella, two sisters; Diana Meier of Monroe and Margaret "Toni" (Larry) Kole of Ashville, NC, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a son in law; Christopher Smith and a brother in law; Frederick Meier.
Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-6 PM at the Bacarella Funeral Home 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., in Monroe. On Monday, August 15, 2011 he will lie in state at the First Presbyterian Church from 10:00 AM until funeral services celebrating his life at 11:00 AM. The Rev. Nancy Carle will officiate.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the Cardiac Rehab Unit at Mercy Memorial Hospital or the First Presbyterian Church.