MICHAEL JULIUS SULLIVAN

SALISBURY — Michael Sullivan, 79, of Salisbury, passed peacefully March 25, with his daughters by his side. He was a seventh-generation Vermonter, born in Middlebury Aug. 28, 1945, to Harry M. and Lois (Kelsey) Sullivan.

He attended schools in Addison County. After working with different construction companies and a stay in the Army, he set out on his own, mastering many different occupations, beginning with first purchasing a bulldozer doing excavation/construction and ending with working at the Nop Brothers and Sons farms, where he was known as “Uncle Mike.”

In his free time, you could find him spending it with his family at either his house or Maple Hill Farm, where he grew up.

Michael is survived by four daughters, Marlene (Jim) Thompson of Ripton, Melissa (Elroy Aunchman) Sullivan of Panton, Michele “Shelly/Spike” Sullivan and partner Samantha Turner of Salisbury, and Monica (Todd) Garthaffner of Addison; six grandchildren, Kristen, Erica, Kelsey, Alyza, Payden, and Sawyer; and eight great-grandchildren. He also leaves a sister, Mary Anne Sullivan of Salisbury, and many nieces, nephews and a cousin. He was predeceased by his parents and sisters Noreen Conant, Martha Sullivan and Margaret (Julie) Dawson.

Michael didn’t just provide for his family; he taught them the importance of perseverance, integrity, and the strength that comes from hard work. Michael will be forever remembered for his hard work, his generous heart, and his enduring legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to thank Brandi Whitney Backus for the compassionate, attentiveness, and generosity she gave Michael, and the Nop families for their friendship, appreciativeness, and generosity toward Mike.

Per Michael’s request there will be no funeral or calling hours. A private burial will happen at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Salisbury Fire Department, Salisbury Vermont 05769

Arrangements under the direction of Sanderson-Ducharme Funeral Home. Online condolences at www.sandersonfuneralservice.com. ◊