Obituary of Edward Tupaj Jr.

Edward Tupaj Jr. first born child to Mary & Edward Tupaj was born in Oakland, California on January 25, 1949 and passed on October 18, 2019.

Edward leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Sydney Large Tupaj, his sister Joan Tupaj Lamb & sister-in-law, Nancy Large. He was predeceased by his younger brother, James Tupaj.

He also leaves behind 2 nieces, Shawna and Katie, a great nephew. Savaun, a great niece, Christine as well as goddaughters, Leslie, Heather and Stella.

Edward, known by his schoolmates as Sonny, joined the army right after graduating from Benicia High School on June 27, 1967. 

From June 1968-October 1968 he was in Unit Company C (S&S) Spr BN, 173rd Airborne Brigade (Rigger Platoon) as Head Field Leader in Bao Loc area 3rd Battalion Airborne 503rd Infantry.

From November 1968-March 1970 he was a Long Range Reconnaissance Squad Leader.

Edward was discharged on March 23, 1971 as a Sergeant E5 and was awarded Parachutist Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Vietnam Campaign Medal, & Combat Infantryman Badge.

Edward was a veteran of the Viet Nam War. After being discharged Edward became an Ironworker for close to 30 years.  He and his wife moved to AZ in 1998.  His love of nature kept him hiking often twice a day for several hours.  He never stopped enjoying the treasures nature provided him.  He was always his happiest out on the land with his dogs, or working with his hands doing his art.