Rupert Earle Jackson was born on January 23, 1947. He passed away unexpectedly on May 19, 2021. He was one of nine children born to George Edgar Jackson and Florence Evelyn Exline on a small farm in Des Moines, Iowa.
When Rupert was 16, he moved to Utah and lived with his oldest brother George. He graduated from South High School in 1965. Knowing he would be drafted, he enlisted in the Army and joined the 173rd Airborne Brigade, “The Sky Soldiers”. After being stationed one year in Germany, Rupert was sent to Vietnam and earned the rank of SGT.E-5. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and the Army Commendation Medal. After serving his country, he began his career as a heavy diesel mechanic for 40 plus years.
Rupert met his best “girl”, Diane, in December of 1987 and married her on May 27, 1988. After Rupert retired in July of 2013, he became a member of the Salt Lake City DAV Chapter 8. He served as Chapter Commander from 2019 – 2021. He was also a member of the DAV Honor Guard.
Rupert enjoyed tinkering around the yard, riding his motorcycles, camping, hiking, fishing, traveling, hanging out in his man cave, and especially spending time with family. He loved and was proud of every one of his grandchildren and 2 other children that he considered his grandchildren as well.
He is survived by his wife Diane, his 4 adult kids; Dustin (Dale), Clayton (Chelsea), Allen (Sarah) and Heather (Steve) Contratto, grandchildren Riley (Sammi), Preslie, Isabella, Christian, Joey, Anya, Makayla, Ethan, Finn, Eliza and Olivia. Also survived by his brothers George, Frank, Mike, Robert and sister Thalia. Preceded in death by his parents, brother Howard and sisters Margarete and Julia.
A special thanks to the First Responders. We appreciate their efforts on Rupert.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, Utah. A viewing will be held Wednesday evening from 6 – 8 pm. Please share your favorite memory of Rupert for his family at larkincares.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity.
As Rupert would say, I’m in a “gooder” place.
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Rest In Peace our good friend. Enjoyed the time we had, although short.
You will be missed
We will miss you Rupe. Our condolences to Diane and family.
I was in the 173rd. I didn't know Rupert. Nevertheless, he was my brother. I wish I had known him.
So sorry to hear this. Prayers for all of the family. Sue and I were shocked to hear about Rupert, you all are in our thoughts......
I was so sad to hear of Rupert's passing. I'm sorry I did not know until way to late. He used to come to our dental office. It was always such a pleasure to be able to visit with him. To say he will be missed is not enough! It will be Heaven's gain and our loss. Please know that my heart aches for your family and my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.