Michael L. Burgess Obituary, Death – We mourn the passing of CCS alumnus Michael L. Burgess (‘72). Our sympathies to his family, friends, and classmates. The obituary and images were supplied by his family. Michael L. Burgess 1954-2023 Mike Burgess, 69, died on September 10. Those unfamiliar with him would recognize his easy smile and friendliness.
He was raised in Hartwick, briefly left for military service, college, and to live with his wife Karen in her birthplace of Long Island before they moved to Hartwick permanently in 1983. They made the red house by the creek a great family home for 40 years. He has many practical skills and extensive experience. He worked as a freelance carpenter or union member on several local buildings and homes.
He often welcomed visitors to his woodshop after retirement for a beer. He liked his labradoodles Bert and Murphy and drinking bourbon beside a bonfire with them. Perhaps awful sci-fi movies and dime novels, which he devoured. He waved at everyone on the street, whether he recognized them or not, whether driving down County Route 11 in Hartwick or taking the crosstown bus in Manhattan (much to the astonishment and delight of New York City bus commuters).
His three daughters and their spouses, Heather and Justin, Rebecca and John, and Kari and Jeff; his grandchildren Noah, Jasiah, and Amelia; his mother-in-law Barbara, sister-in-law Debra, and brother-in-law Stephen; his nieces and nephews Jennifer, Joshua, Stephen, Jackie, Erica, Gene, and Joey; and their children and families who fondly remember “Uncle Muck.” His wife Karen, mother Sieglind, father Lynn, brother Frederic, and father-in-law Eugene died. His descendants will carry on his work ethic, commitment, and respect.
Connell Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, NY, will have calling hours on Saturday, September 30, from 5–7 pm. Instead of flowers, donate to Susquehanna SPCA, ASPCA, or a local animal shelter.
