Obituary of Richard Forrest Bupp

Richard "Rick" Forrest Bupp, 71, of Port Matilda, passed away on Monday, July 17, 2023, at Mount Nittany Medical Center, after extended illnesses. Born on March 14, 1952, in Wilmington, Delaware, he was the son of the late Robert Kooch and Eileen Forrest Bupp. On August 22, 1981 he married Donna Burak, who survives. Also surviving is his beloved grandson, Ricky. Rick was predeceased by his daughter, Desiree Bupp.

In addition to his wife and grandson, Rick is survived by two brothers, Steve Bupp and his wife, Georgia, of Ellicott City, MD, Jeffrey Bupp and his wife, Bonnie, of Landenberg; two sisters, Diane Sheridan and her husband, Mark, of Houston, TX and Kathy Thomas and her husband, Evan, of Frankford, DE. He is also survived by 8 nieces and nephews, 12 great-nieces and nephews, and one great-great niece.

Richard grew up in Manor Park and Penn Acres, Delaware. He was a 1970 graduate of William Penn High School. He attended the University of Delaware, and later the Pennsylvania State University, where he earned a degree in Turfgrass Management. Upon graduation, he began working at the Penn State Golf courses, first as the Assistant Superintendent and then as the Superintendent for many years. Rick retired from Penn State in June, 2011, to begin his wonderful journey as a grandfather and caregiver to Ricky.

Rick loved being outdoors, both in his work and at home. He enjoyed working on his property and sharing that interest with his grandson. He had a keen interest in following national politics. Music was always integral to Rick, and he enjoyed classic rock, southern rock, and British rock.

Rick faced many health challenges over the years, and he met them all with courage and a fierce determination to mitigate or overcome them. He did not allow them to define him, and to the extent possible, to prevent him from doing the things he enjoyed.

Visitation will be held from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m., Monday, July 24, 2023 at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton Street, State College. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm, with Celebrant Jackie Naginey Hook officiating. Burial services will be private, at the request of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital, Liver Transplant Program at https://giving.aws.cloud.upenn.edu/fund?program=MC&fund=601185.

Online condolences may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com