John Frank Upham Sr., 87, passed away peacefully at the Togus VA Medical Center on Sunday January 5, 2014 with his loving family by his side. He was born on April 12, 1926 in Union, ME the son of the late Oscar and Almacia “Janie” Wellman Upham.
Growing up in Union he attended local schools before joining the United States Navy where he served our country faithfully during World War II. Serving in the Pacific from 1944 to 1946 aboard the USS Freestone John was involved in numerous battles including Saipan, Okinawa, and assisted in helping to liberate the Philippines.
Returning to Maine after his honorable discharge he married his first wife Melisanda “Sandy” Upham and the two made their home in Union, ME. John was a life-long farmer and enjoyed working the land. He utilized everything he had at his disposal, enlisting the help of his horses to help with logging. There was nothing more that he enjoyed than working outside and tending his garden. He was a proud member of Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Local 783 for over 40 years.
Besides farming one of his other passions was Horse Pulling. He knew when to hold the reins tight and he knew when to let them loose and it showed with the success that he had around the state at various pulling competitions.
He enjoyed camping and traveling the country. John loved to dance around the house and could often be heard singing and maybe the occasional yodel as well. He was a member of the Maine Draft Horse Association, a member of the American Legion Post 43, and a 50 year pin recipient from the VFW as a member of the Farrar-Ross Post 9437. His greatest joy was his family. He loved having them around and watching the lives that they built for themselves. His tradition of Christmas Popcorn bags will never be forgotten.
He was predeceased by his first wife Melisande “Sandy” Upham
Second wife Lottie Upham
Son Charles Upham
Grandson Peter Upham
Great Granddaughter Ashley Marie
He is survived by his children John Upham Jr. and his wife Sandra of Kinston, NC
Crystal Pomeroy and her husband Richard of Belfast, ME
Albion Upham Sr. and his wife Lida of Warren, ME
Naomi Kirkpatrick and her husband Kevin of Washington, ME
Angelon Upham and his wife Linda of Newburgh, ME
Melinda LeBlanc and her husband Paul of Morrill, ME
Siblings Christine, Mildred, Jeanette, Rebecca, Wayne, Shirley, Reggie, and Sally
Special Friend Ernestine “Tina” Kennard of Washington, ME
Many Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins
A time of visitation was held on Friday January 10, 2014 from 1 to 2 in the afternoon with a Celebration of life beginning at 2pm on Friday January 10, 2014 at Hall Funeral Home 949 Main St Waldoboro, ME with Pastor Tom Rawley Officiating.
A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, May 23, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at the German-Protestant Cemetery, 235 Bremen Road, Waldoboro, Maine with Pastor Tom Rawley officiating.