Dr. Thomas E. Upton, Anesthesiology

Dr. Thomas Edward Upton, MD, aged 94, of Medford, Oregon, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2024. Born on January 5, 1930, in Piqua, Ohio, he was a man of exceptional character and dedication, known for his warmth, humor, and commitment to both his country and his profession.

After completing his medical degree in anesthesiology at Northwestern University, Dr. Upton served honorably as a Lieutenant Medical Officer in the United States Navy aboard the USS Bexar. His military service was marked by the same steadfastness and care that would characterize his later medical career.

Upon returning to civilian life, Dr. Upton became a pillar in the medical community of the Rogue Valley. He was instrumental in establishing Anesthesia Associates, where he worked alongside his esteemed colleagues, including Ted Barss, Gordon Dickerson, the Barnett brothers and Mike Reagan, to name a few. The group excelled in providing compassionate care to patients of our area. Surely he was pleased to see that Anesthesia Associates had continued on in the Rogue Valley and grown so well.

Dr. Upton's vivacity extended beyond his professional life. He was an avid sportsman, engaging in gymnastics, track and field, tennis, and golf throughout his life. His love for tennis and golf led to his being accomplished in a local national Championship tennis team and in winning a national trophy. The trophy was one of his treasured possessions now passed on to his great friend of many years Gary Stevens. His pursuit of golf was a testament to his enduring spirit of improvement via the neverending swing adjustments he made. His enjoyment In golf in these later years was enhanced by his group of weekly "golf buddies" and their breakfast and lunches together before and after golf.

A man of faith, Dr. Upton was a dedicated member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, where he found spiritual solace and fellowship. His children were baptized there, and for many years he attended service there.

A Celebration of Dr. Upton's Llife will be held at the Rogue Valley Manor Sunrise room at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 22nd, 2024. A small family service, with full Naval Honors and flag presentation, will be held at the Eagle Point VA Cemetery within this month. Both Tom and Anne Upton will be resting together there as in their 67 years of marriage. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, jokes and limericks told, service, and the enduring affection of those who knew him.
He had two marriages and one unique special girlfriend here in the valley. He was married to Kathryn Anne Blayney-Upton, his hometown "girl with red pigtails "for 67 years. Then a few years back Tom married Jody Larson, very happily, but suddenly she was diagnosed with a fatal illness and sadly died quite soon after their marriage.
Of late he's been spending time with a unique love, Ms Betty Jones. They enjoyed crackers and cheese together along with many glasses of wine and laughter. Anyone who saw them together knew there was much affection and caring between the two.
In remembrance of Dr. Upton, contributions may be made to a charity of one's choosing, the Rogue Valley Medical Assoc., or the local hospitals. The family extends their express gratitude to Conger Morris and Marcus Grafton, for their compassionate assistance during this time.

Dr. Thomas E. Upton's life was marked by his devotion to his community, his country, and his loved ones. He will be deeply missed, loved and forever remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.