Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Michael VanNostrand Obituary

Michael R. Van Nostrand
Michael R. Van Nostrand, 67, of Enfield, beloved husband of Laurie (Bajek) Van Nostrand, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Springfield, MA, on April 9, 1958, Michael was the son of the late Ralph E. Van Nostrand, Jr. and Rosemond (Seminara) Van Nostrand. He grew up in Enfield and remained a lifelong member of the community. Michael retired in 2023 after 35 years as a machinist and materials handler in the shipping and receiving department at the Kamatics division of Kaman Aerospace, where he was known for his strong work ethic and easygoing spirit.
Michael had a gift for building things - and for bringing joy into everyday moments. Whether he was woodworking, creating masterpieces out of LEGO bricks, or crafting model cars, ships, and tanks, he found satisfaction in the details. He loved to travel, especially his annual trips to Maine with his daughter Anna and son-in-law Kevin, and visits to see his daughter, Jen, in Washington, D.C. He enjoyed local casinos, concerts, car shows, and long walks on the beach collecting shells. His storytelling was legendary, his spontaneous songs unforgettable, and he never missed a good parade or a chance to share a laugh. Like the rest of his family, he loved animals and was a lifelong pet dad and granddad.
But more than anything, Michael cherished time with those he loved. He was happiest surrounded by family, making memories out of simple moments, and embracing life's adventures.
Along with his devoted wife Laurie, Michael leaves behind two daughters, Jennifer Van Nostrand and Anna (Van Nostrand) Davis and her husband Kevin; his brother, Robert Van Nostrand and his wife Maria; his sister, Debra Reis and her partner Rich Rosa; and several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, June 17, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Road, Enfield. A funeral home service will follow at 1 p.m., with burial at St. Adalbert's Cemetery.
To share memories or offer condolences, please visit www.leetestevens.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Journal Inquirer on Jun. 14, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael VanNostrand

Not sure what to say?





0 Entries

Be the first to post a memory or condolences.

Make a Donation
in Michael VanNostrand's name

Memorial Events
for Michael VanNostrand

Jun

17

Visitation

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels

61 South Road, Enfield, CT

Jun

17

Funeral service

1:00 p.m.

Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels

61 South Road, Enfield, CT

Funeral services provided by:

Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels & Cremation Services

61 South Road, Enfield, CT 06082

How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael VanNostrand's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more