THOMASTON — John “Fonzie” Upham, 80, of Thomaston, passed away peacefully at home on February 9, 2026, surrounded by his closest friends after several years of failing health.

Born on October 29, 1945, in Rockland, John was the son of John E. and Gwendolyn (Barlow) Upham. He grew up in Thomaston and attended local schools, graduating from Georges Valley High School in 1964, where he proudly played all sports and formed many lifelong friendships.

From 1965 to 1971, John served his country in the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Cam Ranh Air Base in Vietnam and at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. As a special equipment inventory specialist in inventory management supply, he carried out his duties with integrity, earning a medal for Meritorious Service before receiving his honorable discharge.

Following his military service, John began a dedicated career at Maine State Prison, where he worked as a correctional officer from 1969 until his retirement in 2009. He was known for his steady presence, and strong work ethic.

John had a deep love for animals. After welcoming his golden retriever, Sam, into his life, he founded the Visiting Dog Program, bringing comfort and companionship to many. His dogs, including Sam and Ditto, were among his greatest joys.

A devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox, John rarely missed a game and loved watching sports of all kinds. He also took pride in his meticulously maintained lawns and gardens and had a special appreciation for Thomaston’s history and beauty. For more than 25 years, he volunteered his time to string Christmas lights at the Thomaston Mall, decorating 30 trees with more than 17,000 lights each holiday season. He also tended the flower garden on Knox Street and other areas around town.

John’s dedication to his community did not go unnoticed. He was honored as Thomaston’s Citizen of the Month in October 2003 and received recognition from the Knox Center and at Thomaston Harbor for his many contributions.

On October 7, 1972, John married the love of his life, Lee Ann Upham. They shared 52 devoted years together before her passing in early 2025. He was also predeceased by his lifelong friend, Jimmy Watts.

John is survived by many cousins, including Callie Gothard of MDI; his brother-in-law, Blaine Cardilli and wife Susan of Winthrop; close friends and caretakers Craig Gamage of Warren, Megan Marquis of Thomaston, and Sandra Moore of Thomaston; as well as dear friends George McLain, Bob (Lynn) Snow, and Valmore Blastow.

John’s family and friends would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Maine Death with Dignity for their compassionate guidance and support in honoring John’s end-of-life wishes.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11 a.m., at the Village Cemetery on Erin Street in Thomaston.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in John’s name to Pope Memorial Humane Society, P.O. Box 1294, Rockland, ME 04841.

Arrangements are under the care of Hall Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To share a memory or condolence, visit www.hallfuneralhomes.com.