Lowell J. Hupp

Lowell J. Hupp, born on February 14, 1939, was a twin to Lorne and the son of Theodore and Nora (Sapp) Hupp. He began life on a farm near Carroll, Iowa, attending Viola Schools. Lowell faithfully served his country in the United States Marine Corps, a testament to his dedication and resilience.

After his service, Lowell farmed in the Audubon area and became a businessman, owning the Holiday Bar and Restaurant in Audubon. Later, he launched a tree service specializing in stump removal, often contracting in Sioux City.

In 1979, Lowell met the love of his life, Kay C. (Brocker) England. They married on March 31, 1989, in Harlan, Iowa, where they built their home together. They shared a passion for beekeeping, which blossomed into a successful business, Midwest Iowa Honey. Lowell was known for his tireless work ethic, remaining active until age 80, with his final role as a dishwasher at Wing’s Truck Stop in Avoca.

In his earlier years, Lowell was a spirited dirt track race car driver, competing at Shelby County Speedway during the 1960s and 1970s. In the 1970s and 1980s, he immersed himself in pool tournaments, playing in local leagues and competing in Omaha, often accompanied by Kay, his “sweet honey.”

Lowell was a talented woodworker, crafting cherished wooden horses for his grandchildren. He and Kay enjoyed traveling to destinations including Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, California, Florida, Canada, New Orleans, and Las Vegas. They also frequented music shows in Branson, Missouri. An animal lover, Lowell’s dog, Brandi, was his loyal companion. In his later years, Lowell was a familiar face in uptown Harlan, enjoying the community’s camaraderie. Ever devoted, he cared for Kay and ensured her social connections until her passing.

On Friday, November 22, 2024, Lowell passed away at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan at the age of 85 years, nine months, and eight days. His generosity continued through his participation in the Iowa Donor Network donation program.

Lowell was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kay Hupp; granddaughter, Sierra Knight and siblings: Lorne, James, Berthal, and Lorene Hupp. 

He is survived by his children: Teri (Tom) Wallis of Las Vegas, Nevada, Jeff Hupp of Springfield, Missouri, Lowell James Hupp of Tacoma, Washington, Steve Hupp of Tucson, Arizona, and Christopher Hupp of Ottawa, Kansas; step-children: Rena (John) Bechtel of Mesa, Arizona, Michele (Jimmy) Jackson of Omaha, Nebraska, Kelly Tomasello of Omaha, Nebraska, Toni (Ron) Knight of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Steven Tomasello of Harlan; grandchildren: David Jackson, James Jackson, Christine Tomasello, Jasmine Jackson, Kathryn Tomasello, Danielle Garrison, Vincent Knight, Derek Monthei, Allison Hupp, Chase Hupp, Jake Hupp, Samantha (Hupp) Swerda, Abby Hupp, Jesse Hupp, Molly Jo Hupp, and others; numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and friends.

Per Lowell’s wishes, he will be cremated, and no services will be held. In lieu of personal memorials, those wishing to honor Lowell are encouraged to send flowers to the local nursing home for the residents to enjoy.