Michael C. Sanborn

ONSET – Michael C. Sanborn, 68, of Onset, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at the Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington after a brief illness. He was the devoted husband of Cathy Sanborn. Known for his strong work ethic and generous heart, Michael dedicated his life to serving others, both through his career and his community involvement.
Born in Taunton, he was the son of the late Watson and Eleanor (Kiernan) Sanborn. A previous resident of Attleboro, he moved to Onset 47 years ago.
Michael began his working life at the Hannah Shaw Home in Middleboro, where he was responsible for facility maintenance. He later went on to serve with the Town of Bourne Highway Department, where he worked for 20 years from 2003 to 2023. In addition to his civil service, Michael proudly served as a firefighter with the Onset Fire Department for 30 years beginning in 1986. He was promoted to Lieutenant of Engine 2 in 2012 and retired in in 2016. Michael received the Governor's Medal of Valor on October 28, 2000 for heroic acts of bravery during the Holly Street fire. Michael also served as Onset Water Commissioner for 7 years.
Michael was deeply involved in community efforts. As an active member of the Box 5 Association, he helped to organize the annual New Year's Day Polar Plunge, raising funds for food baskets to support local families in need.
He was known for his deep love for his family, unwavering dedication to his work, and his generous spirit. In his free time, Michael enjoyed peaceful walks to the Onset pier, attending classic car and antique shows, and connecting with his community in meaningful ways.
Michael is survived by his children, Jason Sanborn and his wife Nichole of Pink Hill, NC and Jennifer Antonucci and her husband Michael of Methuen; his granddaughters, Kyle and Mia Sanborn of Taunton; his siblings, Rosmary and Jack Salamon, Patricia Fasci, Brian and Heather Sanborn; his sister in-law, Valerie Cabral, brothers in-law, Michael and Tracy Cabral and David and Ginny Cabral; and many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Chapman Funerals & Cremations – Wareham, 2599 Cranberry Hwy. (Rt. 28), Wareham from 10 to 11:30 AM. A funeral service will follow at 11:30.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Beth Israel Lahey Health, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Office of Philanthropy, 529 Main Street, 4th Floor, Charlestown, MA 02129 or on-line at https://giving.bilh.org/laheyhospitalmedicalcenter