Michael Gottsegen

Longtime Milford resident Michael Gottsegen, 74, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026 in Orange, Connecticut, supported by his loving family. He was born on May 2, 1951 in the Bronx, New York and was the beloved son of the late Jerry and Ruth (Borgerson) Gottsegen.

Michael lived a life defined by dedication-to his family, to his community, and to the games he loved. A gifted and passionate athlete, he excelled in multiple sports throughout his youth in both the Bronx and Flushing, New York. As a high school senior, he earned First Team honors from the New York City Public School Athletic League for his exceptional performance during the 1969 football season, an achievement that led to a full football scholarship to Lees-McRae College in North Carolina. Following college, he was invited to attend a tryout with the New York Jets-an opportunity that reflected both his talent and determination. He was also a standout shortstop on his high school baseball team, showcasing the versatility, skill, and competitive spirit that would characterize his life.

While Michael's athletic accomplishments were impressive, his greatest impact was felt on the sidelines. For decades, he devoted himself to coaching and mentoring young athletes in the Milford community. He volunteered his time with Milford Junior Major League Baseball, serving as both a coach and an active board member. He also coached with Milford United Soccer Club, Devon Knights Basketball, and The Milford Elks Pop Warner Football. Generations of Milford families came to know Michael not only as a coach, but as a steady, encouraging presence who believed deeply in teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

At the high school level, Michael made history as the first coach of the Notre Dame-Fairfield Girls' Soccer team, where he was honored with the Fairfield County Soccer Referee Association Award for Sportsmanship-an award that spoke to his character as much as his coaching ability. He also coached baseball at both Jonathan Law and Derby High School, and boys' basketball at Foote School in New Haven. Though he was offered opportunities to coach Division I college football at East Tennessee State and Nebraska, Michael chose to remain close to his family-an easy decision for a man whose proudest role was that of husband, father, and grandfather. He rarely missed a game, enthusiastically supporting his children and grandchildren from youth leagues through college.

Michael found his greatest joy in traveling to St. Maarten, a place that held his heart and many of his happiest memories. He often stayed at The Belair Beach Hotel, where he cherished long, sun-filled days on the beach and in the pool surrounded by family and friends, listening to the waves and sharing laughter under the warm island sky. Whether relaxing by the shore or exploring the island's beloved local restaurants, St. Maarten was more than a destination to him - it was a place of togetherness, comfort, and lasting joy.

Professionally, Michael built a long and successful career in sales management. He worked for several companies before joining Freihofer's Baking Company, where he remained for more than 33 years through multiple acquisitions and ultimately retired as a Sales Manager with Bimbo Bakeries. Known affectionately as "Buddha" to his colleagues, he formed countless friendships over the years and earned the respect of those who admired his leadership, integrity, and strong work ethic.

Michael was predeceased by his parents; his mother-in-law, Blossom Manning; his nephew, Patrick Gottsegen; and his sister-in-law, Kathleen Gottsegen.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Alison (Manning) Gottsegen; his loving children, Alexis Gottsegen-Brown (Timothy Brown), Shawn Gottsegen (Jennifer), Ryan Gottsegen, and Brett Gottsegen (Nora); and his cherished grandchildren, Zackary Brown, Taylar Gottsegen, Peyton Gottsegen, Hayden Gottsegen, and Teagan Gottsegen. He is also survived by his brothers, Richard Gottsegen (Linda) and Cory Gottsegen; his sister-in-law, Michele Shelley (Jack); as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Michael will be remembered for his unwavering support, his competitive spirit, his generosity with time and wisdom, and the pride he took in watching others succeed. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched-on the field, in the workplace, and most importantly, at home with his family.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 7, at 12:00 p.m. with the preception starting at 11:00 a.m. where a video tribute will be shown at the First United Church of Christ Congregational, 34 West Main Street in Milford, CT, where loved ones will gather to celebrate his life.

Memorial contributions may be made in Michael's honor to First United Church of Christ Congregational, 34 West Main Street, Milford, CT 06460. https://firstchurchofmilford.org/giving/

Livestream link for those unable to attend: QR code provided http://firstchurchofmilford.org/