Michael Jay Gottesman

Michael Jay Gottesman, 80, passed away peacefully at his home in Henderson, Nevada, on April 1, 2025. Michael was born on September 30, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, to Ralph Gottesman and Nettie Goldstein, who preceded him in death. Michael led a life marked by intellectual curiosity, public service, and a deep appreciation for the arts and nature.

A dedicated scholar and lifelong learner, Michael pursued an impressive academic journey. He earned a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Oklahoma and a B.A. in Forest Resource Management from Oregon University. His passion for communication led him to further studies, culminating in an M.A. in Mass Communications from California State University and a Ph.D. in Mass Communications from the University of Iowa.

Michael's professional life was as diverse as it was impactful. He served his country honorably in the United States Army from 1969 to 1974, achieving the rank of E-2 while stationed at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. His commitment to global service continued when he joined the Peace Corps from 1988 to 1990, directing the Environmental Education Program in Sierra Leone, Africa.

Throughout his career, Michael held numerous roles that reflected his wide-ranging talents and interests. He worked as a professor of Journalism and Mass Communications, sharing his knowledge with students and colleagues alike. In the media industry, he served as an Account Representative at CBS and as a Media Buyer/Planner at Doyle Dane Bernbach. His dedication to public service was evident through his work as a Caseworker with the New York Department of Social Services and later as a Customer Service Representative with the Internal Revenue Service. Before retiring from federal service, he concluded his career as a Financial Data Analyst.

Michael's love for learning extended beyond academia into every facet of his life. He had a profound appreciation for the arts-opera, theatre, musicals, museums-and found joy in traveling and exploring new cultures. Nature was another source of inspiration; he enjoyed hiking and observing wildlife wherever he went.

He is survived by his beloved friend Amber DeLuca and cousin Michelle Goldstein. Michael will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who knew him and by those whose lives he touched with his kindness and compassion.

May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps of service, scholarship, and humanity.