deacon armstrong for sure. he's an absolutely amazing champ that will help you in every area of the game.

Then Armstrong is getting food today :)

Ronda is also a solid choice to bring to 60.

Deacon is a great choice. 

If it were my account I'd 6 star Reliquary Tender next to get a cleanser/healer/reviver on the team. I could see an argument for Apothecary, but his speed boost is a little less vital with a Deacon on the team.

One other comment - since it seems as though you are taking rares to 5-star to use as food. For an early game player, be careful about which rares you choose to do this for. While there isn't much end-game value for most rares, that same argument can't be made for early-game players. Pay special attention to any rares that have a revive ability, as they may end up being invaluable for faction wars.