Samuel Jordan Upton

Samuel Jordan Upton, 37, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away on May 29, 2026.

Born in Clinton, Iowa, and raised in Morrison, Illinois and later in Evansville, Indiana, Sam was a proud graduate of North High School, Class of 2007. During his youth, he developed a love for sports that would stay with him throughout his life. He played Little League Baseball and cherished the memories made on the field. One of his proudest highlights came when he hit a game-winning home run, a moment that became part of family lore for years to come. Sam also played basketball throughout his school years and was a member of the North High School basketball team.

He built his life around family, friendships, and service to others. For more than 16 years, Sam dedicated his career to the food service industry, serving in both retail and wholesale sales roles. He took great pride in supporting his customers, coworkers, and the companies he represented. Through his hard work, determination, and willingness to go above and beyond for the people he knew depended on him, he earned the respect and appreciation of those around him.

Sam was a passionate Chicago sports fan and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his beloved Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, and Fighting Illini. Outside of sports fandom, he was an avid golfer whose fairway wood game became legendary among friends and family. Sam had a special place in his heart for dogs, whose loyalty and companionship reflected many of the qualities he valued most in life. His affection for animals was evident to all who knew him, and he never met a dog that didn’t quickly become his friend. He also never let his older brother forget the day he dunked a basketball on him in the driveway “like a grade school scrub”—a story that brought laughter for years. Whether on the golf course, with family and friends, or creating another chapter in the long list of shenanigans that seemed to follow him wherever he went, Sam lived life with enthusiasm and in his own unique way.

He is survived by his father, Jack Upton (Claudia) of Punta Gorda, Florida; his mother, Susanne Upton of Evansville, Indiana; his sister, Kelsey Upton (Michael) of Evansville, Indiana; his brother, Mason Upton (Dana) of Boonville, Indiana; and his cherished nieces and nephews, Colette Keller, Wyatt Belcher, and Weston Belcher as well as many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his friendship, laughter, and loyalty. Among them were his lifelong best friends, Joe Brooks, Tyler Stinson, Ben Wilkinson, Ben McGee “Skinny”, Greg Hopkinson & Bobby Angle whose bond with Sam was one of brotherhood, countless memories, and unwavering friendship.

Sam was preceded in death by his grandparents Emery Upton, Idella Upton, Ronald and Mary Jo Schoenig and Charles Bickert along with his Aunt Karen Upton, Uncle Phil Harris and cousin Jessica Peterson.

Though his time with us was far too short, Sam’s laughter, friendship, and love for his family will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, therapists, and staff of Deaconess Gateway Hospital, St. Vincent Ascension Hospital, and Select Specialty Hospital for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided to Sam throughout his journey. Their kindness, dedication, and professionalism brought comfort to both Sam and his family during a difficult time and will always be remembered with deep appreciation.

A celebration of Samuel’s life will be held at a later date. Family and friends are invited to share memories and honor the life of a man who brought joy, laughter, loyalty, and kindness to so many.

In remembrance of Sam and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to It Takes A Village located in Evansville, Indiana.