09/11/2026
PAST PRESIDENT WILLIAM “UPPIE” UPDIKE
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our long-time Past President, William “Uppie” Updike, who passed away after a very courageous battle with ALS.
Uppie exemplified what it truly means to put "Service Above Self." He dedicated an incredible 59 years to the fire service, joining our department in April 1967 after transferring from the Serven Fire Department.
A Legacy of Leadership & Dedication
• Department President: Uppie served as our President for many years, leading our monthly meetings with fairness, order, and absolute dedication—rarely, if ever, missing a meeting.
• Department Chaplain: He cared deeply for our members and our history. Every spring before Memorial Day, Uppie personally ensured that every past member’s gravesite at Evergreen Cemetery was honored with a fire department plaque and fresh flag.
• Community Leader & Volunteer: Uppie’s service extended far beyond our station walls. He was an active Mason with the Seneca Lake Lodge, a dedicated member of the Dresden United Methodist Church, and a frequent volunteer at the Hope Pantry in Penn Yan.
• A Lasting Gift: If you’ve seen the Little Free Lending Library at the Dresden Village Office, you’ve seen Uppie’s handiwork. He built it by hand—just one more way he found to give back to the village he loved.
Bill’s presence, knowledge, stories, jokes, and deep wisdom will be profoundly missed around the station. He leaves behind a void that can never be filled.
In memory of Bill and his lifelong commitment to helping others, we ask that you consider carrying out a random act of kindness or a good deed for someone in need today.
Rest in peace, Brother. We'll take it from here.
