Congressman Fred Upton announces passing of father, Steve Upton

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. - U.S. Representative Fred Upton announced Tuesday that his father, 98-year-old Steve Upton of St. Joseph, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning.

Steve Upton was a philanthropist and World War II veteran.

Later, Upton became a senior vice president at Whirlpool.

He leaves behind his wife of 71 years, Elizabeth, as well as five kids, 17 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren.

"Dad led us all by example to give back to our community and try to make this world a better place," said Fred Upton.

Whirlpool CEO Mark Bitzer told ABC57 News the following:

"Steve Upton was an incredible individual who had a significant impact not only on Whirlpool Corporation but also on our community. The generosity Steve and his wife Elizabeth have shown over the years, across so many aspects of our community, will serve this area for generations to come…Whirlpool’s ongoing values can be directly attributed to early leaders like Steve."