Jeffrey D. Upah

Jeffrey Upah, age 61, of Los Angeles, California, formerly of Marshalltown, Iowa, passed away at his home in California on July 22, 2026.

Jeffrey Dean Upah was born on November 12, 1964, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the first of two children born to Ronald and Darla (Hick) Upah. He graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1983.

Jeffrey continued his education at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, graduating magna cum laude in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film and Theater Literature and Criticism. He went on to earn a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree from the Yale School of Drama in 1998.

At the time of his passing, Jeffrey had worked in management at Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles for more than 20 years. During his tenure, he helped produce, present, and manage dozens of ambitious and technically demanding theatrical productions, including many Broadway productions brought to Los Angeles.

Jeffrey developed a love of playing the piano at an early age, inspired by his mother, who was a piano teacher. He became an accomplished pianist and studied piano at Iowa State University while still in high school. He was a member of the Marshalltown Music Association and performed at weekly concerts for veterans and residents of retirement homes. He also performed at numerous school music concerts.

Jeffrey was actively involved in his high school's drama department, working behind the scenes on sets, sound, lighting, and wherever his many talents were needed. His early passion for music and theater laid the foundation for a rewarding and successful career in the arts and education.

Throughout his educational years, Jeffrey served his communities in numerous ways. During his senior year of high school, he was appointed an Iowa Senate Page. While attending Washington University, he served on the university's Judicial Review Board, and at the Yale School of Drama, he served as Student Government Chairperson.

Jeffrey also held positions with several prominent performing arts organizations, including the Santa Fe Opera and Yale Repertory Theatre, where he worked in marketing and administration. In 2004 and 2005, he served on the Orpheum Theatre Committee, contributing to the strategic plan for renovating Marshalltown's historic theater.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jeffrey will be remembered for his intelligence, creativity, generosity, and deep appreciation for music and the performing arts. Throughout his life, he pursued his interests with passion and purpose, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him. His unexpected passing leaves a profound sense of loss among his family, friends, and colleagues. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered.

Jeffrey was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Darla Upah. Left to cherish his memory are his siblings, Keith (Yolanda) Short of Westminster, Colorado, and their son, Jordan LeVan; and Cheryl (Dan) Goos of Ames, Iowa, and their children, Caitlin (Andrew) Preston, Tanner (Morgan) Mansager, Cassidy (Caden) Trygstad, and Lily Goos. He is also survived by several great-nieces and great-nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

In accordance with Jeffrey's and his family's wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown, Iowa. A graveside service will follow at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with Jeffrey's arrangements. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.

- Lovingly written by family

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