James “Ronnie” Upton

James “Ronnie” Upton, 72, of Piedmont, MO, passed away Tuesday, December 22, 2020, at his residence. He was born in St. Louis, January 19, 1948, to parents James and Vera (Files) Upton. Ronnie was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He married Barbara A. on May 23, 1970 and was the proud father of two wonderful daughters. He was of the Baptist faith. He was a mechanic for a trucking company, during his working career. Ronnie enjoyed hunting, the outdoors, camping, and hanging out with his family and friends. He had a huge, tender heart, helping anyone he knew needed help. Fishing was his favorite sport and has traveled to many states to fish. Ronnie enjoyed making people laugh. He was adventurous, a jokester, and a comedian. Ronnie also had a charming side. He loved to dance, sing, and play guitar. He was such an avid dancer; he could teach anyone how to dance. Ronnie was just an all-around good person. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife of thirty-two years; sister: Carrie Pearl Pashia; brothers-in-law: Clarence Bennett, Pete Dvorak; sisters-in-law: Rose Bennett, and Mary Swims. Ronnie is survived by his children: Shannon Upton and Lisa Lewis and husband Matthew all of Piedmont; grandchildren: Jadon Williams, Halley Lewis, Amanda Lewis; sisters: Janet Dvorak of Arnold, Toni Lansa of Hillsboro, Cindy McCullouth and husband Mark of Arnold; nephews: Billy Lee, Larry, and Ricky Wallace, Tommy Swims, Michael and Billy Bennett, Justin, and Jared Faulkerson, Nash Miller, Ben Dvorak; nieces: Michelle Pashia, Shelly, Danielle, and Hannah, Bennett, Angie, Cathy, Crystal, and Barbie Swims; brothers-in-law: Darrell Swims of Alabama, William Bennett of Troy, and Jim Faulkerson of Hillsboro; sister-in-law: Gwen Bennett of Columbia. Ronnie will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Visitation was held from 1:00 until 5:00 pm, Saturday, December 26, 2020, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont Chapel. Funeral service followed at 5:00 pm, also in the Piedmont Chapel. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com