
James M. Updike, age 80, of Enola, passed away peacefully at his home on June 8, 2021. Born on January 19, 1941 to the late Robert M. and Janet W. (Hagen) Updike of Tyrone, Pennsylvania. James was also proceeded in death by his devoted wife of 49 years, Sherry L. (Ross) Updike. James is survived by his three children: Sharon Updike of Camp Hill, PA, Tracy Updike of Enola, PA, and Scott Updike (wife Eve) of Charlotte, NC and four grandchildren: Matt Potter (wife Lindsey) of Dauphin, PA, Brett Potter (wife Lauren) of New Bloomfield, PA, Brayden Updike and Aubrey Updike of Charlotte, NC and one great-granddaughter Tenley Potter of New Bloomfield, PA. James had five siblings including the late Robert E. Updike (wife Anna), Joseph Updike (wife Jean), Raymond Updike (wife Angela), Patricia Stone (husband Ralph) and Arlene Focht (husband Charles).
James attended William Penn High School in Harrisburg, PA. Following high school, James entered into the U.S. Army and spent time in Fort Jackson, SC, Fort Leonard Wood, MO and Chinon, France. Following his military service, James began his career at Bethlehem Steel in Steelton, PA where he worked as an electrician for over 40 years. James retired in 2002.
In addition to being a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, James had a passion for hunting, fishing, camping and vacationing. Some of his favorite travels included trips to Aruba, Hawaii, cruises throughout the Caribbean, and Alaska. As a proud Army veteran, James also loved watching military shows and movies.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Sullivan Funeral Home, 51 N Enola Dr, Enola, PA 17025. Wednesday morning at 9:15 am, a procession will leave the funeral home and a graveside service with military honors will be held at the Indiantown Gap National Veterans Cemetery.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to the Disabled American Veterans (www.dav.org) charity.
The Sullivan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Updike family.