Harry William Upson Obituary
February 24, 1942 – Hamilton, Ontario
April 5, 2025 – Calgary, Alberta
Harry William Upson was a devoted father, husband, veteran, golfer, woodworker, fisherman, and all-around handy guy who passed away peacefully in Calgary, AB on Saturday, April 5, 2025. He lived a big, bold life and left a lasting impression wherever he went.
Harry grew up in Hamilton, ON, and joined the Navy in the early 1960s, where he played water polo and found lifelong discipline. A natural athlete, he tap danced as a child, then went on to play football, and competed in swimming and diving throughout high school. His energy and competitive spirit were hallmarks of his whole life.
He married the love of his life, Catherine Anne Upson (née McKeen), and together they raised two daughters, Kelli and Mary-Jo. He fiercely loved his family and would go to bat for them in a heartbeat. Watch out if you insulted one of his girls!
Professionally, Harry worked in the elevator industry for many years, eventually founding and, with the help of Cathy, running his own business, Guild Elevator, in the Guelph area. He was known for his work ethic, high standards, and the loyal relationships he built with his customers.
Outside of work, Harry was always busy. He was an active member of the Guelph Legion, where he volunteered, and joined the snooker and card leagues – always with a competitive flair and a love of banter. He enjoyed fishing and was also a skilled woodworker. And when it came to his yard, he didn’t mess around – the grass was always mowed in perfect straight lines — not a single leaf or branch was out of place. Neighbours and visitors alike knew: that Harry’s yard was not to be messed with.
Golf was one of Harry’s true passions. He was a longtime member at Victoria Park Golf Club in Guelph, where he was a bit of a legend – well-known, well-liked, and hard to beat. He was especially proud of his multiple holes-in-one and tournament wins. He even built and repaired custom golf clubs, always striving to improve his game and help others improve theirs.
He was known for his larger-than-life personality – always joking and “constantly on the rib.” But beneath the bravado was a deeply loyal, fiercely loving man who would do anything for his family and friends.
Harry was predeceased by his parents, James and Lillian, his brother Jim, and his beloved wife Cathy. He is survived by his daughters, Kelli and Mary-Jo; his grandchildren, Taylor, Josh, Addy and Ivan; his brothers, Ron and Ralph; and his sister Ruby.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by friends, family, and anyone lucky to cross paths with him.
In living memory of Harry Upson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.
Surrounded by the love of his family Ken passed peacefully on March 16, 2025, at the Welland Hospital in his 87th year. Beloved husband of Beverley. Proud father of Ken (Denise) and Kim Roberts. Sadly missed by grandchildren, Emma (Robert) Kitchen, Matthew (Zori) Sleeper and Kaitlyn Roberts. Fondly remembered by his sister-in-law, Eleanor Lake and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by sisters, Helen, Grace, Eunice and Alice. Ken lived for many years in Guelph, where he made lifelong friendships. He was employed at GE and later GWS in Fergus. He was a proud and very active member of the Guelph Legion Br. 234 for 50 years and served as Sargent of Arms and Colour Sargent. He also had a passion and love of the outdoors enjoying fishing, hunting and camping with family and friends. Ken and Bev have spent the last 15 years in Ridgeway as members of All Saints Anglican Church and enjoying quiet time at home Williams Funeral Services 722 Ridge Rd. Ridgeway entrusted with arrangements. Funeral Services will be held at All Saints Anglican Church 149 South Mill St. Ridgeway on Saturday, March 22, at 2 p.m. Visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m. If so desired, donations to the Church Building Fund would be appreciated.
The Royal Canadian Legion Br.234 Guelph
57 Watson Parkway South, Guelph, Ontario N1L 0H8, Canada
for faster service email guelphlegion@gmail.com