NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Robert James "Bob" Upton, 69, of North Adams, Mass., died Saturday, October 21, 2017, at Berkshire Medical Center.



He was born in North Adams, Mass., on October 14, 1948, son to the late Kenneth Plummer and Cirena (LaDue) Upton. He attended schools in North Adams and graduated from McCann Technical High School in 1969, where he was the MVP of the football team. Directly after graduation he joined the US Army serving during the Viet Nam era earning the rank of private.



In 1983 Bob began employment with the City of North Adams as its Wire and Alarm Inspector, serving that position for 30 years. He also taught swimming at the YMCA for over 30 years. Bob was actively involved in his community and was past President and past Worthy President of the North Adams Eagles. He was a life member of the Greylock Community Club and the Adams Mountain Club.  He was an active member of the Frank R. Stiles Post 125 American Legion and a member as well as employed at the Stamford Valley Golf Course.



He loved the Red Sox, the New England Patriots and the Boston Celtics and was an avid golfer and card player.



Survivors include his sister, Lois Fachini of Florida, Mass.; three sisters-in-law, Lynn Upton, Denise Upton and Rose Upton; a brother-in-law, Robert Witherell; as well as nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews.



He was predeceased by four sisters, Gertrude Adkins, Elizabeth Witherell, Madeline Bliss and Gloria Beals; and six brothers, Harold, Donald, Kenneth, Leo, Edward and Theresa Upton.



Funeral notice: A Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Bob Upton will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2017, at the First Baptist Church in North Adams. Burial will follow in the Veterans Section of Southview Cemetery.



Calling hours will be Wednesday, November 1, 2017, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Flynn and Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, West Chapel, 521 West Main Street, North Adams. Donations may be made to Pop Cares in care of the funeral home.