Michael Emerson Bruggeman

Bruggeman
Michael Emerson Bruggeman (Age 77)
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael E. Bruggeman, 77, of Selbyville, DE.

Born on January 11, 1948, in Parkville, Maryland, to Emerson and Betty (Malushuk) Bruggeman, Michael was a proud graduate of the University of Maryland, where he cultivated a strong work ethic and a passion for excellence that defined his life. He built a distinguished career as a successful realtor and commercial broker, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike through his integrity, expertise, and dedication to the real estate industry, but most of all, through his infectious personality and abundant sense of humor. He was always ready for a good joke, a smile or a conversation with a friend or passerby.

Above all, Michael was an exceptionally devoted family man. He shared 48 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Michele, and was a loving father to his daughter, Aubrey, and his son, Chase. His family was his greatest joy, and he took immense pride in watching his children grow into accomplished adults and parents themselves. He was elated watching his children in their athletic pursuits, loudly cheering along on the sidelines of baseball and softball fields, basketball courts, swim lanes, field hockey turfs, and more. He cherished his role as a dotting grandfather to Gabriel, Sloane, Cole, Beckett, and Hazel, always making time for laughter, silliness, games, ice cream and sports on TV. His passion for sports shaped his family's early years and left a lasting mark on his grandchildren, who always knew he was their biggest fan.

A man of many strong passions, Michael was a talented and avid guitarist, finding solace and joy in music throughout his life. Whether strumming his favorite tunes with his band, The Chosen Few, in his late teen and early twenties or simply playing for his own enjoyment while listening to the Rolling Stones, Beatles or DMB, his love for music was truly infectious. Michael was known to do a convincing impression of Mick Jagger on the dance floor every once in a while for his adoring fans. He was also a competitive golfer and spent his teen-hood proudly caddying for various clubs in Baltimore. In his later years, he followed his wife's devotion to the game of pickleball, embracing the camaraderie and challenge almost as much as she did. He also followed and embraced Michele's insatiable desire for travel. The two traveled regularly to Europe, Canada, and along the western and southern coasts of the U.S., among many other destinations. On these trips, they shared countless treasured memories, endless laughter, and-of course-hundreds of ice creams and gelatos.

Michael will be remembered as a generous and loyal friend, avid musician, sports enthusiast, talented entrepreneur and a man of deep, deep kindness. His warm smile, quick wit, and unwavering support touched countless lives. He leaves behind a legacy of love, perseverance, and joy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Michele; his daughter, Aubrey (Brian); his son, Chase (Karouna); and his five adoring grandchildren-Gabriel, Sloane, Cole, Beckett, and Hazel. He also leaves behind his sister, Gay (Russ), as well as his nephew, Rusty, and niece, Samantha, their children, as well as his aunt Beverly Harding. Beyond his immediate family, Michael will be deeply missed by countless extended family members, friends, and colleagues who were fortunate to be part of his extraordinary life. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Michael's life will be held on July 18 at 11 a.m. at Saint John's the Evangelist Church on Georgia Avenue in Silver Spring, MD with a reception to follow.