Obituary of Rickey Warner Upton

Rickey Warner Upton, 75, of London, passed away peacefully on December 20th at University Hospital, surrounded by loving family.   

Rick was born in London to Jim and Doris, on April 26, 1949.  His first tee-off time followed soon after.  To say golf was his passion is an understatement.  As a kid he would hit balls until it was too dark and his hands blistered.  He honed his short game, which remained annoyingly good through all his years.  This passion became his first profession when he earned his CPGA card, letting him teach the game as a professional while working in Florida, Hamilton, and eventually back  to London, where he helped build North London Golf Centre, which exists to this day.  He then gave up his pro status to begin working at London Life, where he earned the respect and trust of countless colleagues and clients over a 45 year career.  It was a no-brainer for Rick to change careers, for he did it for his true number 1 love in life: his family.  Rick always made it a priority to be there for his family, even if it meant missing a round of golf or re-scheduling an appointment at work.  On retirement, he said this was his proudest accomplishment.  He will always be remembered for his easy-going attitude, sense of fun and adventure, and for being kind and accepting to everyone.  And let’s face it, for doing things the way he wanted them done (for better or for worse).                

He is survived by his mother: Doris, beloved wife: Leah, children: James, Sue (Lee), Rick (Patricia), Geoff (Nicole), Andrew, Antonette (Adam), brother: Jim (Marie), sisters: Melody (Barry) and Mitzi (Chris), sisters-in-law: Linda and Pam, grandchildren: Chris, Cassandra, Lukas, Ainsley, Emilia, Ella, Oliver, Hannah, nieces/nephews: Jim, Corri, Gerritt, Nick, Brandon, Eric, Travis, Sherry, BJ, great friend, George.  He is preceded in death by his father, Jim, brothers Mart and Norm, and great friend, Dave.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre (https://www.salthaven.org/). 

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the wonderful staff at University Hospital in London.  

Online condolences and service details can be found at: www.funeraloptions.ca.