John C. Upton

John C. Upton, 53, of Antwerp, NY, passed away on September 16, 2025, at Rochester General Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.

John was born on January 1, 1972, in Norwich, NY, the son of William T. Upton and the late Mary (Ponton) Upton. He graduated from Alexandria High School in Alabama and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy.

He entered the Navy on February 4, 1992, and served with distinction until his honorable and medical discharge on April 1, 2002. During his service, John received numerous awards and commendations, including the Navy Achievement Medal, the Battle “E” Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the SSBN Deterrent Patrol Pin, and both the Expert Rifle Medal and Expert Pistol Medal.

Following his military service, John began a long and dedicated career with Fort Drum Range Control, where he worked as a Work Leader from 2002 until the time of his passing.

On April 26, 2008, John married Charlene Bridge in Antwerp, NY. The couple made their home there, sharing a life full of love, laughter, and family. John was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting in Southern Tier and fishing aboard U Boys. He was a passionate fan of Alabama Crimson Tide football (Roll Tide!). 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Charlene M. Upton of Antwerp, NY; his daughter, Haley Upton and her fiancé, Jon Simmons, of Rochester, NY; his son, Mitchell Upton of Chaumont, NY; and five stepchildren, Corey and Jennifer Webb of Sherburne, NY, Derek Webb of Brownville, NY, Devin and Jerri Webb of South Hamilton, NY, Dana Bridge and his fiancé Katelyn Hershewe of Syracuse, NY, Brichele Bridge of St. Joseph, MO.

He is also survived by eight grandchildren; his father, William T. Upton of Dexter, NY; two brothers and their partners, Tom Upton and Kathy Eggelson of Norwood, NY, and Michael and Carolyn Upton of Manhattan, NY; a nephew, Brody; his aunt and uncle Barbara and Donald Scott; and his beloved French bulldog companion, Big Al.

Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home. Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 19, from 1:00–3:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM at the funeral home. 

A graveside service with military honors will take place on Saturday, September 20, at 1:00 PM at West Hill Cemetery in Sherburne, NY.

Online condolences may be shared at www.dexterfuneralhome.com.

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