It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Donald M. Lupo on July 31,2023, after a long and difficult battle with kidney disease.
Don was born in Charleston SC in 1942, where his father was stationed. His family later moved to Chicago and this is where he was eventually introduced to the many restaurants and variety of foods he came to love. After his high school and college years in Illinois, he enlisted in the Army. Following his military service, he began his career in the food industry with Carnation Company. Having an abundant knowledge in his field, he eventually opened his own food brokerage business. It was during these years that Don made many of his life-long friends from coast to coast.
Since Arizona was his favorite place to visit, it was no surprise that he and Saundra moved to Cave Creek 25 years ago.
They built their home in the hills north of town and filled the property with animals they loved. When his grandchildren visited, it was a joy for Don to see them interact with all the many critters.
A routine ritual for Don was frequenting the local coffee shops, sharing stories and smoking cigars. Riding his motorcycles with his buddies was another pleasure he truly enjoyed. Of the many vehicles he owned, his ‘72 Ford pickup was his favorite.
Don was blessed with a wonderful, loving family and is survived by his wife Saundra of 56 years, his sons – Jason and Justin, his daughter Jennifer and her husband Phill and his grandchildren Brenna and Tommy.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held in Cave Creek later in September.
