http://www.bridgton.com/robert-w-upton-ii/
Robert Upton
Robert William Upton, II, aged 78 died on 10 March 2023 from Alzheimer’s, which was complicated by an illness.
Rob Upton was born 1944 in Concord N.H. to Frederic Upton and Jean Upton. Dartmouth College, where he graduated in 1965. He was educated at Concord Schools. Rob received his law degree from Boston University School of Law and started his career as a lawyer in Manchester. He then joined the Concord firm Upton, Sanders & Smith. Rob’s namesake and grandfather, Senator Robert W. Upton, founded the firm. Rob spent the remainder of his career, which spanned 50 years, in private practice at the firm now called Upton & Hatfield. He began in Concord, and then moved to North Conway.
Gary Richardson has been Rob’s law partner for many years. He described Rob as an all-round lawyer who advocates with integrity, passion and dedication on behalf of his clients. Gary Richardson recalled an early product liability trial they had tried, in which a defective mower caused serious injuries to Claremont teen. Rob’s brilliant plan was to have a Concord High School small engine mechanic who had been a classmate of his testify at the second court hearing. It was the classmate’s assessment of the condition of the tractor that convinced the second jury to rule in Rob’s and Gary’s favor.
Bob Larsen, Concord’s lawyer, described Rob as his favorite opponent, an honest and reliable lawyer who was also a New Hampshire native, and wore Bean Boots at hearings.
Rob’s career culminated with him being recognized as one the top N.H. attorneys representing municipalities and towns in taxation disputes and other municipal issues. He argued before the highest court of N.H. on the most complex cases of this type in recent history. Rob always said that he learned a lot and appreciated practicing law with his father Fred Upton and uncles Richard, Gilbert and Gilbert Upton. Rob was quick to mention how much he loved working with his many clients, co-workers and opposing counsel.
Rob loved fly fishing, and he also enjoyed skiing and golfing with friends. John Barrett, his long-time fishing buddy, said that Rob was able to outfish and outlast everyone on the water. John Barrett also remembered how Rob enjoyed a few sips of single malt after a long day at the Miramichi River, their favourite retreat.
Rob’s wife Lorri Upton, of Bridgton, and children Abigael Upton Brown, and Ben Brown, of Cottekill in New York, and Emily Upton Saunderson, and Zac Saunderson, of Arlington are left to carry on his legacy. Samuel M. Upton, his wife Sarah Lake, and Molly J. Upton, of South Portland, and Alison F. Upton, of Austin, Texas, are also survivors. Rob had four adoring grandchildren: Fiona Isla Hannah and Angus.
At a future date, a public service of remembrance will take place.
Donations in Rob’s name can be made to either the Alzheimer’s Association in North Conway (nh.jensfriends.org), or Jen’s Friends Cancer Foundation (alz.org).
Wood Funeral Home, located in Fryeburg is responsible for the arrangements. Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.woodfuneralhome.org