It is with saddened hearts that we share that Michael Don Sullivan, of Brattleboro, VT, formerly of Fairfield, CT, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2026, following a period of declining health.

Michael was born in Indianapolis, IN, on June 9, 1957, to Don and Beverly Sullivan. His family soon relocated to Fairfield, CT, which he proudly called home until 2015, when he moved to Brattleboro to be closer to his daughters and their families.

Michael had a natural gift for making people feel welcome, seen, and cared for. During his years as a bar manager at the former Al’s Place in Fairfield and as a devoted staff member at the former Oscar’s Delicatessen in Westport, CT, Brattleboro Country Club, and the Vermont Country Deli, he brought smiles to countless customers with a simple hello, a thoughtful gesture, or his signature wit and humor. Kindness came naturally to Michael, and he never seemed to miss an opportunity to make someone’s day a little brighter.

He had a deep appreciation for history and could spend hours talking about the people, places, and events that shaped the world. He loved learning, remembering the details, and sharing what he knew with anyone willing to listen.

A lifelong Mets, Jets, and Notre Dame fan, Michael loved watching sports and, even more, talking about them.

Most of all, Michael cherished his family and watching his grandchildren grow. He was incredibly proud of Cameron, Jackson, Brayden, and Addyson and treasured every opportunity to be part of their lives. He treasured his daily morning texts to his daughters, evening calls with his twin brother, and checking in with family.

Michael will be remembered for his quick wit, love of sports and history, storytelling, and most of all, his kindness.

Michael was predeceased by his parents, Don and Beverly Sullivan, his brother, Greg Sullivan and his brother-in-law, Tom Stablein. He is survived by his daughters, Amy Frechette (Brian) of Dummerston, VT, and Jennifer Abramson (Brian) of South Deerfield, MA; grandchildren Cameron and Jackson Frechette and Brayden and Addyson Abramson; and his extended Vermont family, Laura Classey, Amber Classey, and Gabe Rosa.

He also leaves his twin brother and lifelong best friend, David Sullivan (Beth) of Fairfield, CT; sisters Sue Darrow (Roger) of Monroe, CT, Terry Seymour (Nick) of Marlboro, MA, and Patty Benner (Ron) of Fairfield, CT; sister-in-law Debbie Sullivan of Sandy Hook, CT; along with many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and countless dear friends who remained close to his heart throughout his life and final days.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the caregivers at BAYADA Hospice and Thompson House for the compassion, patience, and dignity they provided Michael and the family during his final days. Their dedication brought comfort to Michael and peace to those who loved him.

Calling hours will be held Friday, October 16th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Phaneuf Funeral Home in Brattleboro. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Brattleboro on Saturday, October 17th at 11:00am with a reception to follow. In honor of Michael’s love of sports, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite team apparel, or something green or Irish.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Michael’s memory with an unexpected act of kindness to make someone feel seen and cared for. Alternatively, donations may be made directly to Thompson House (Brattleboro Mutual Aid Association) or the BAYADA Hospice Foundation, supporting their continued compassionate care for others in the Brattleboro community.

Phaneuf Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. To view an online tribute, leave a message of condolence or for more information please visit www.phaneuf.net.