James Hupp
Obituary

James Cecil Hupp, 81, of Yorba Linda, California, passed away on September 6, 2026, following a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on December 4, 1944, in the small farming town of Scranton, Iowa, to Cecil and Louise Hupp, James grew up on the family farm. It was there that he developed the steadfast work ethic that would come to define his life. After graduating from Scranton High School, he earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University and later completed a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Technology at the University of Northern Iowa—an accomplishment he achieved while working full-time. On December 28, 1965, he married Pamela Jean Reinhart, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned over 60 years.

James enjoyed a remarkable, nearly 60-year career in manufacturing operations, engineering, and process improvement. He truly loved his work and always pushed himself to be successful. He began his career with Chamberlain Manufacturing, holding various roles that eventually took the family from Iowa to Kentucky in 1977, and then to Mississippi. In 1980, the family relocated to Southern California, where James continued to build his legacy in operations leadership. Over the following decades, he held prominent roles such as Director of Operations for Aerojet Electronic Systems and Vice President of Manufacturing for Toshiba, where he was responsible for the final manufacturing of all Toshiba laptops for the United States. He also served in executive roles for Exemplis Corporation and worked as a highly respected management consultant well into his later years.

Outside of his professional life, James found his greatest joy in spending time with his family. He was an avid golfer and a lifelong automotive enthusiast who loved—and proudly owned—several Corvettes over the years.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela; his son, Brent, and daughter-in-law, Debbie; his grandchildren, Dylan and Abigail; and his brothers, Don and Steve. James was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Louise; his beloved daughter, Polly; and his brother, Tom.

In accordance with his wishes, no memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in James’s memory.