James Anthony Upman
James Anthony Upman, age 96, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away on Sunday, October 8, 2023, at Hospice House. His loving family was by his side during the final days of his life.
He was born at home, the second youngest of nine children to Appolonia and Alphons Upman In Catonsville, Maryland on January 14, 1927. He is predeceased by an infant brother, and three Other brothers, Joe, Edward, Elmer, and four sisters, Rita, Marie, Elizabeth and Agnes.
He attended school in Catonsville before joining the army in April 1945. He served as a private with the 27th infantry in Japan.
Jimmy came to Sarasota for a visit and stayed, opening up a Cities Service Gas Station on US 41 when it was a two-lane road. He soon met his wife Karen of 64 years. Together they had three wonderful children. Sherri Upman Dever (Kurt), Randy James Upman (Lisa) and Mark Anthony Upman. Five grandchildren, Cory Dever (Stacy) Bradley and Ashley Dever, Alaina Upman Lomax (Justin) and Kyle Upman. Also many nieces and nephews.
Jimmy moved his business further on down US 41 for a while until he could purchase property on Clark Rd. For his Service Station. He had one wrecker which eventually grew into Upman’s Towing after his son, Randy, took over the business. Jimmy loved the automobile business and he enjoyed working, especially wrecker calls at all hours to assist Law Enforcement.
His daughter, Sherri, and son, Mark worked at the business for a while, and even his father-in-law.
Back in the days when one had their gas pumped, oil checked, and windshield washed by an attendant. After his retirement, his real joy was gardening and growing vegetables, especially tomatoes. He also sold firewood and would use his firewood money for a yearly trip to HardRock on his birthday with family, to play the slots.
He was very close with his family and he sure was well-loved. Jimmy very much enjoyed his role of Paw Paw after the grandchildren came along.
A 9:30 funeral mass will be at the Church of Incarnation, on October 17th, 2023. The Burial Ceremony will be at the National Cemetery, Highway 72 (Clark Road) at 1:00 PM. Arrive no later than 12:45.
In lieu of Flowers and in honor of Jimmy’s memory and his beloved dog, Molly; donations can be made to Satchel’s Last Resort, 1801 Coash Rd, Sarasota, FL. 34241. Or Tidewell Hospice. We so appreciate all the care he received from their wonderful employees.
