MICHAEL JOSEPH BREYETTE

MIDDLEBURY — Michael Joseph Breyette, age 60, of Middlebury, Vt., passed away Dec. 4, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with Ocular Melanoma and Uveal Metastatic Cancer.

He is survived by his husband and beloved partner in life, Eric Masterton Mott; his parents, Robert and Loretta Breyette; and his sister and brother, Loretta and Robert. His extended family includes his mother-in-law, Diane Masterton Mott of Middlebury; sister-in-law, Carrie Anderson of San Francisco; and his closest friends, Mark Sloop of West Rutland, John Lezcano of Middlebury, Marshall Pierce of Montpelier, Lacie Grisley of Ellicott City, Md., and Elin Gudmundsdottir of Mosfellsbær, Iceland. There are hundreds more who could be listed, Michael was loved by so many. The outpouring of grief since his passing has been overwhelming. He was deeply loved and adored by all who knew him.

Michael’s art was more than color and form; it transcended the page. His work empowered the LGBTQ community. People saw themselves in his subjects and themes: passion, tenderness, love, landscapes, intimacy, joy and protest. His art helped many gay men see themselves with pride and gave others courage to live authentically and openly.

He was also no stranger to fighting for creative freedom and artistic integrity, often challenging censors, copyright pirates and unethical promoters. Few artists master detail, lighting, emotion and connection the way he did. The dust on his fingertips and the way he blended pigment into canvas created something truly magical. His work will continue to hang proudly in homes and galleries around the world.

His love for animals was central to who he was (with the possible exception of spiders). His affection showed not only in commissions and studies of various animals, but also in his deep love for his dogs, Huxley and Bentley. It’s possible he loved Huxley just a bit more.

Ocular Melanoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that often metastasizes. Michael participated in multiple clinical trials at Mass General Brigham and Mass Eye and Ear. His donated samples will contribute to research that may lead to future treatments and cures. If you have light-colored eyes, please schedule yearly eye exams. Early detection matters.

A celebration of Michael’s life will take place in the spring, when the gardens he lovingly tended are in bloom. Details will be shared with family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Homeward Bound of Middlebury. ◊