Michael Harold Birdsell's Obituary
Michael Harold Birdsell died peacefully in his sleep on July 15, 2024 in Milford, Delaware, of complications from blood cancer. He was 83.
He was born at Griffin Hospital in Derby, Connecticut, on February 20, 1941. Michael was the oldest son of Elbert Birdsell and Josephine Dadurka. He was particularly close to his paternal grandmother Florence (“Flossie”) throughout his formative years. He is preceded in death by his parents and his younger sister Arlene.
“Mike” – as he was known to the wide circle of friends who cherished his stoic presence and wry sense of humor – was a model of integrity in every way. He maintained his wit and warmth through his final chapter with, in his own words, “absolutely no regrets.”
Mike began his military career in 1959 at Parris Island, South Carolina, where he grew from a carefree teen into a responsible young man. During his venerable career, he was stationed in North Carolina, California, Japan, Vietnam, Maryland, Morocco, Korea, and Hawaii. He retired in 2009 with 24 years of dedicated service to the Marine Corps, followed by 26 years spent at the National Security Agency as a cryptologist and later as aid to the Director of Foreign Communications. He was highly decorated, having achieved the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant, the highest enlisted rank attainable in the Marine Corps. His leadership and wisdom will continue to be realized by the generations of those he served with.
From grilling by the pool at “Dad’s Place” to crabbing along the shores of the Magothy River in Pasadena; enjoying the beach at Bellows Air Force Base in Honolulu to hiking the volcanic peaks of Mt. Fuji in Japan – Mike lived an extraordinarily full life of love alongside the many friends and family who meant the most to him. His presence at the head of the table will be dearly missed. When asked what advice he would have given a younger version of himself, Mike said: “Talk less, listen more, and make good choices.” Those who were blessed to know him, know the sentiment is one he lived each day.
He leaves behind his devoted wife Eugenia “Genie” Anne Birdsell, née Hobbs, who held his hand through an incredible 61 years of marriage. They were wed on October 12, 1963, at Holy Rosary Church in Ansonia, Connecticut. He is survived by son Michael Edward and wife Laura; son Raymond and wife Kim; five grandchildren: Ashley, Alexander, Sophia, Michael James, and Jacob; and great-granddaughter Eleni.
He is also survived by brother Walter and wife Lucy; and their children Walter Gerard, Mary, and Susan. He is preceded in death by brothers-in-law Nick and Richie. He is survived by Nick’s daughters Felicia and Heather; Richie’s son Jason; Richie's wife Jeanne; brother-in-law Frank; Frank's children Alo, Luke, and Lila; and their extended families.
A mass will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Jude The Apostle Church, 152 Tulip Dr., Lewes, Delaware 19958, where friends may visit beginning at 10:00 AM. A celebration of life will be held at Fish On restaurant immediately following the mass at 17300 N Village Main Blvd, Lewes, Delaware 19958.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Delaware Veterans Home, 100 Delaware Veterans Blvd, Milford, DE 19963.
Please sign Mr. Birdsell's Tribute Page located on this website.
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