Bernard Eugene Upah, 93, of Chelsea, IA passed away November 12, 2022, at Brooklyn Community Estates in Brooklyn, IA.

Bernie was born January 20, 1929, to Joseph Sr. and Mary (Reitzler) Upah in Victor, IA. He attended school in Poweshiek and Tama counties. Bernie enlisted into the U.S Air Force in 1950, serving during the Korean Conflict. Following his service in 1954, he moved back home to Chelsea, when he briefly worked at Lennox Mfg. in Marshalltown. On November 27, 1958, Bernie married Violet Starits at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Chelsea. Together, they purchased their farm south of Chelsea, which later became a Century Farm, where they raised their family. Along with farming, Bernie also worked for many years at the Tama Livestock Auction, and was an Archer Oil salesman. Starting at age 70, Bernie began to retire, fully retiring at the age of 75.

Bernie liked fishing, cutting wood, deer hunting, and playing cards, both in card club with Violet, and at the Silver Dollar. Bernie enjoyed visiting with people and hosting friends at his river bottom ground, "the bottoms."

He was president of Chelsea Community Club for many years, and member of the Bohemian Mutual Board in Toledo. Bernie was active in his faith as a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, volunteering for the church council, and as the Sexton at St. Joseph's Cemetery.

Bernie is survived by his children, Tom (Janice), Gene (Anna), Tony (Debbie), Monica (Rob); grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother Paul; sisters, Mary Lou, Pauline, and Linda.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Violet; brothers, Joe Jr., Jim, and Bob; sisters, Carolyn, Lois Ann, and Jane.

Mass of Christian Burial is 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 19, 2022, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Chelsea with Father Michael McAndrew and Deacon Joe Behounek officiating. Burial will take place at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Chelsea with military honors.

Visitation is 9:30-11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 19 prior to mass at the church. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com.