Michael Thomas Burgess

Michael Thomas Burgess, a dedicated custodian, respected historian, decorated Vietnam Veteran, and loving family man, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 30, 2025. Born on July 23, 1948, in Wareham, MA, he was the son of the late Lorraine and Leonard Burgess of Buzzards Bay, MA.

Michael proudly served our nation in the United States Army, enlisting in 1968. As a Vietnam Veteran, he distinguished himself as an M14 sharpshooter and was awarded both the Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Following his service, he dedicated 34 years of his professional life to the Bourne School System as a diligent custodian. Beyond his work at the schools, he was profoundly committed to preserving local history. He served as the Historian for the Town of Bourne and was a prolific writer for the Bourne Courier for many years.

His articles often focused on significant local figures and landmarks, including pieces on President Grover Cleveland and his summer house in Bourne, as well as actor Joseph Jefferson and his summer residence in Crows Nest, Buzzards Bay. Michael also generously contributed numerous books and historical articles to the Bourne Historical Society, where he also has his own display of articles in the archive.

A proud patriot and history enthusiast, Michael was a member of both the General Society of Mayflower Descendants and the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, for which he received a Supplemental Ancestor Certificate.

Michael is survived by his beloved partner of 25 years, Lori Gundberg of Westerly, RI. He leaves behind his daughter Kelly Burgess; his grandchildren, Dakota and Hunter Lewis; and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Odams of Kittery Point, ME, and was preceded in death by his brother, Leonard Burgess.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at the Nickerson- Bourne Funeral Home 40 MacArthur Blvd., Bourne, MA with a burial to follow at 1:45 p.m. at the Massachusetts National Cemetery.