Arnold M. Upson

Arnold “Arnie” Melvin Upson, age 82, of Phillips, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at his home on January 8, 2026.

Arnie was born and raised in Phillips, Wisconsin, the son of Vernon and Esther Upson. After Vernon’s passing when Arnie was young, Esther later married Bill Stark, who helped raise Arnie and remained a loving and influential presence throughout his life.

A graduate of Phillips High School, Class of 1961, Arnie went on to attend Wausau

Technical Institute, where he earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing, graduating in 1964.

On August 22, 1998, Arnie married the love of his life, Theresa “Terri” Wenzel. Together they shared 27 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and deep companionship.

Arnie faithfully served his country in the Army National Guard for 37 years and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4. He enjoyed a successful career as a Senior Planner at Marquip, where he worked from 1984 until his retirement in 2011.

Arnie found joy in life’s simple pleasures such as gardening, making firewood, playing cribbage, playing piano, and was an avid shooter and collector of firearms.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Upson and Esther Stark; his stepfather, Bill Stark; and his grandparents, John and Jessie Slatinsky.

Arnie is survived by his devoted wife, Terri Upson; his children, Scott Upson, Heidi (Michael) Babcock, and Mark Wenzel; his grandchildren, Rachel (Evan) Eckert and Ashley Upson; and his lifelong friend, Dan Erdman.

In keeping with Arnie’s wishes, no services will be held at this time.