Kenneth DeWayne Upton, Jr.

Born in Muncie, Indiana, on November 5, 1940, Kenneth was the son of the late Kenneth D. and Lillian Underhill Upton. He was the beloved husband of 53 years to the late Anna Maria Cescut Upton, and the son-in-law of the late Carlo and Ancilla Cescut of Aviano, Italy.

Kenneth’s life was defined by a pioneering spirit and a remarkable work ethic. His professional journey began in New Orleans as the first employee hired at the Bud’s Broiler City Park location. After attending Nicholls State University, he answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Kenneth joined the Boeing Corporation under the NASA space program, where he contributed his talents to the historic Lunar Rover project, a source of great pride throughout his life.

An entrepreneur at heart, Kenneth later established himself in the restaurant industry as the founder and owner of Flame-N-Burger. He eventually expanded his business reach as a joint venture partner in Popeyes franchises across South Texas.

Despite his professional achievements, Kenneth’s greatest legacy was his family. He was the devoted father of Steven J. Upton (Lori) and Carol A. Upton–Sieverding (Mark). He was the proud grandfather of Jason R. Upton (Kacey), Stephanie Upton Hostetler (Jonny), Jacob Upton Sieverding, Thomas Duthu (Destiny), and Adam Duthu, and he now joins his late granddaughter, Emily Upton Weaver (Rob), in eternal rest. He also leaves behind four great-grandchildren, Logan Upton, Colton Hostetler, Maverick Hostetler, and Bradley Hostetler, who brought him immense joy.

He is survived by his brother, Robert Upton (Roberta), and his sister, Martha M. Campbell (and the late Samuel), along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss his presence and his stories deeply.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass in the chapel of Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. in New Orleans, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at All Saints Mausoleum. A visitation will be held at the funeral home beginning at 11:00 AM.

To view and sign the family guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com