Michael J. Bradford, Sr.

Chief Michael J. Bradford, Sr., 78, Retired Upton Fire Chief and Lifelong Upton Resident, passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the UMass Memorial University Hospital in Worcester. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. He was the beloved husband of 51 years to Mary (Megerdichian) Bradford.

Born in Worcester, Michael was a son of the late Ronald and Grace (Minor) Bradford. He was raised and educated in Upton, where he graduated from NIPMUC High School. Michael proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War Era, achieving the rank of CTSN.

Upon his return from the Navy, Michael met the love of his life, Mary, in 1973. They were married in 1974, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion.

Chief Bradford's professional journey began at Bay State Abrasives in Westborough, followed by a decade-long tenure as the Town of Upton Highway Supervisor. During this time, he also served as a call firefighter for the Upton Fire Department, where he rose through the ranks to become Deputy Chief and, ultimately, Fire Chief for the final 10 years of his career.

After retiring from the fire department, Michael continued to share his passion for firefighting as a part-time instructor at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in Stow for 10 years. He also worked part-time at the Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home as a Funeral Assistant.

Michael had a variety of interests, including fishing, watching NASCAR and Red Sox games and spending time with his family and friends. He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sports events.

In addition to his wife, Mary, he is survived by his son, Michael Bradford, Jr. and his wife Cathy of Upton; his two cherished grandchildren, Colin and Kendal Bradford of Upton; his siblings, Stephen Bradford of Holliston, and Joseph Bradford and his wife Gloria of Jacksonville, FL; his nieces and nephew, Ashley, April, and David; and his beloved grand pup, Reese.

He is predeceased by his son, Craig Bradford, his sister, Donna Johnson, and his infant sister, Bonnie Bradford.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, April 8, at St. Gabriel the Archangel Church, 151 Mendon Street, Upton. Burial with Military and Upton Fire Department Honors will follow at Lakeview Cemetery, Upton.

Visiting hours will be held from 4 to 7 P.M. on Monday, April 7, at the Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home, 45 Main Street, Upton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Upton Fire & EMS Association Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 1012, Upton, MA 01568.