Jeff Upton

UPTON _ Jeff, died suddenly on July 15, 2005. Born 25 December, 1948, in Nottingham, he became an electrician by trade and rock climber by passion. Jeff arrived in Canada in 1976 as one of a group of British climbers and travelers who settled in the west, drawn by the mountains but held by the open spaces, coasts, and opportunities for adventure. This group made a significant contribution to the outdoor scene in the Rockies and the Coast, introducing rock and ice climbing standards and methods from the UK scene, and not forgetting opportunities for parties and fun. From Calgary, Jeff moved to Vancouver where he indulged a love of sailing, and practiced his trade as an electrician. Professionally, he soon moved into the film business and realized he had found a niche. Jeff has made a significant contribution to the methods and skills of the trade. In this he may have been assisted by the lessons learned in climbing; patience, precision, ingenuity and teamwork. He was a great team leader and mentor who used humour and subtlety to achieve great ends. Many a director and DOP would acknowledge their debt to his ability to get results in time and under pressure. Jeff is survived by his beloved son, Callum; brothers Jack, Bob and Tim; and sisters Linda and Dawn in Nottingham; his Canadian family: Kendrie, Danielle, Keith, Dixie, and Rory; and by friends and colleagues across the country and around the globe. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. A Memorial Service is planned; for information, contact the Directors Guild of Canada or IATSE Local 891.