James Lewis "Upde" Updegraff

James Lewis "Upde" Updegraff, 86, of Williamsport, was carried on angels wings to his heavenly home on Thursday, March 8, 2018.

Born Jan. 14, 1932, in Port Angletown (Muncy), he was the youngest child of seven to John Wilson and Ella Marie (Zaar) Updegraff.

James served in U.S. Army during the Korean War. Following his military service he returned  home and took a job with Asplundh Tree Experts, working his way up to foreman. Upde’s strong work ethic, led him to be foreman for Lewis Tree Company, and then to start his own business Updegraff Tree Company. With little formal education, he made sure his kids had everything they ever needed by working hard to give them all the extras that the other kids had. Upde loved the work he did and was considered one of the best and most respected tree man in the area.

When he was able Upde loved to hunt, and just being out in the woods gave him enjoyment. He enjoyed processing wild game for friends and family, making many pounds of bologna and sausage. At the age of 80 he began painting pictures of friends and animals and really enjoyed his new hobby. His strong zest for life, Upde was a three different type cancer survivor, was courageous and never asked, "Why Me". Upde was a life member of the VFW No. 7863 Duboistown, the Lycoming County S.P.C.A. and he attended Hillview Baptist Church.

Surviving are his loving wife of 17 years, Linda (Chrapek) Preston Updegraff; his loyal companion, Pooh (who predeceased him); his children, James L. (Stephanie) Updegraff II, of Montoursville, Sandra Caschera, Susan Preston, and Sharon Short, all of Williamsport; nine grandchildren, Heath Barry, Jill Bentley, Elissa Perry, Jodi Preston, James L. Updegraff III, Areta Updegraff, Amy Updegraff, Roosevelt "Shorty" Short, and Amy Francis; and 15 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sons-in-law, Tony Caschera and Roosevelt "Bubba" Short; and six siblings, Ida Bennett, Ruth Updegraff, Arthur, George, William and John Updegraff.  

A funeral service to honor Upde’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 17 at Sanders Mortuary, 821 Diamond St. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.  

Burial will follow in Montoursville Cemetery with military honors.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Upde’s name may be made to the Lycoming County SPCA, 2805 Reach Road, Williamsport, PA 17701 or Best Friend Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, Utah 84741-5000.

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