John Northup

1935 - 2017

NORTHUP, John W. 81, of Springfield, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, May 23, 2017, following a series of illnesses. He was born in Montgomery County on August 21, 1935, the son of Lynn W. and Mary C. (Carr) Northup. John was a 1953 graduate of Northwestern High School where he played football and was crowned as their first Homecoming King. His high school class remains close to this day. John was also instrumental in forming Northwestern's Pee Wee football team. He retired from Navistar following 30 years of service and previously worked as a bricklayer. He was a proud, 50 year member of Anthony Lodge #455 F. & A.M., Home City Chapter #258 O.E.S., Scottish Rite Valley of Dayton, Shawnee Chapter #237 R.A.M., and a card-carrying member of the 6:30 Degree. John was also a charter member of the Springfield Cruisers Car Club and a member of the Union and Machinist Clubs. His hero, John Wayne, and his persona sums up John's attitude towards life. He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Judy K. (Howard) Northup; daughter, Jeannine Anderson of Waverly; son, Greg (Joanie) Northup of Springfield; step-daughters, Tina Mowen of St. Petersburg, Florida and Heather (Howard) Denson III of Springfield; grandchildren, Dale (Kelli) Northup, Casey Northup, Larry (Melissa) Anderson III, John (Ashley) Anderson, Dylan Northup, and Tyler and Cheyanne Denson; great grandchildren, Avery, Braelyn, Alizabeth, Ellie, Iyanna, Autumn, Zaiden, McKenzie, Silas, and Joshua; his four-legged companions, Hogan and Jaxon; and his many friends at the Lawrenceville Creamery. He was preceded in death by his son, Douglas Northup. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 5-8 p.m. Friday in the LITTLETON & RUE FUNERAL HOME. John's funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday in the funeral home. Private entombment will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Welfare League.