Robert Dana Upton was born in Melrose, Massachusetts to Paul and Shirley Upton. After graduating high school Robert attended the University of New Hampshire where he studied Hotel Administration and Accounting. He enjoyed learning the culinary side of his major and joined a fraternity in his sophomore year. During his high school breaks and his college years, Robert spent his summers in Gilford, New Hampshire working on his grandfather’s farm, a summer resort for city guests looking to gain a more rural experience.
After college, Robert enlisted in the Army, attending the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center, and was stationed in Alaska. After serving his country, he returned to Boston and worked in the family necktie manufacturing business. During this time, Robert met and married fellow Old South Church member Maurine Upton, and this union produced a beloved son, Robert. Their 64-year marriage was full of camping trips, cruises and cross-country adventures.
In later years, Robert transitioned careers and began teaching accounting at Bryant & Stranton in Boston. Robert attended Northeastern College, earning his Master’s Degree in education, before transitioning to public accounting and acquiring his CPA license. He rounded out his career as a budget specialist with Shaw’s Supermarkets. After retirement, Robert pursued hobbies that included model boat building, gardening, and small financial projects for friends. Known for his nostalgic stories, Robert could paint a picture that would endlessly entertain any audience. Though he excelled in science and business, he never forgot his farming roots, which helped lend to his happy country charm.
Robert is survived by wife Maurine, son Robert, daughter-in-law Tanja, and granddaughter Desiree.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the New England Wildlife Center. A private graveside service was held at Forest Hill Cemetery in Lynnfield, MA.