Michael David Gottschalk, age 71, beloved husband of Linda Trinder Gottschalk, died peacefully on April 4, 2025 in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family. Born in Bridgeport on July 19, 1953, he was the son of the late George and Marion Wickert Gottschalk. A 1971 graduate of Bullard Havens Technical High School, Mike enjoyed a long and successful career as a heating technician, employed through the years with Kaufman Fuel, Santa Fuel, Standard Oil, Sikorsky and Edgerton Fuel, until the time of his retirement in 2019. He was a popular serviceman, holding the trust of his customers and looking out for their best interests. His affable personality and friendly demeanor endeared him to many; he quickly made friends wherever he went. Michael was a passionate classic car enthusiast, owning a black on black on black 1972 Plymouth Duster (aka “his baby”) that was proudly displayed at area car cruises and car shows. In his leisure time, he fished, camped, tried his luck at the Mohegan Sun Casino, and spent countless hours at his daughters’ and grandchildren’s sporting events. He was their biggest fan and strongest supporter!

In addition to his wife of 51 years, he is survived by his devoted daughters, Christa Ventura and her husband, John of Oxford and Lisa Dulka and her husband, David of North Carolina; Sisters, Cathy Christensen and her husband, David of Milford, and Joan Sagalski and her husband, William of Seymour; brothers, Mark Gottschalk of Milford and Paul Gottschalk and his wife Diane of Shelton; cherished grandchildren, Karlie Gottschalk, Austin Dulka, Lucas Ventura and Alexa Ventura; great-grandchildren, Carter and Arielle Carson; his mother-in-law, Fernanda Trinder of Stratford and a sister-in-law, Karen East of Derby; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He will be long remembered for his corny jokes and simplistic humor, his innate ability to lighten the mood of any situation, and for his willingness to help others at all times. He will be forever loved and forever missed.

A private celebration of life service will take place at a later date. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia is in care of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306, Tunnel to Towers Foundation.Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.