Obituary: Michael S. VanDerburgh
Maine Community Mourns Former Press Herald Staffer and Camp Mechuwana Volunteer Michael S. VanDerburgh
Leominster, Mass. – Michael S. VanDerburgh, 66, of Leominster, Massachusetts, passed away unexpectedly on September 23, 2026, at his home. Born in Kirksville, Missouri, to Arthur and Judith VanDerburgh, Michael spent his early years moving throughout the Midwest and the East Coast. He graduated from Deering High School in Portland, Maine, before serving in the United States Navy.
After his military service, Michael joined the Portland Press Herald, where he worked for more than two decades in the circulation department. “He was a quiet but dependable presence,” said a former colleague. “Michael always made sure the papers reached the right hands on time.”
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Michael followed the games on the radio and in his own home, often becoming the group’s “built‑in sports broadcaster.” He followed Major League Baseball teams such as the Colorado Rockies, Philadelphia Phillies, Pittsburgh Pirates, and New York Mets, and he was a fan of the Michigan Wolverines, New York Giants, and several other sports. His daughter, Katie Church, recalled that watching the games together was a staple of their family time.
Outside of work, Michael was a dedicated volunteer at Camp Mechuwana, a summer camp in Winthrop, Maine. The camp, where his parents, siblings, daughter, and current granddaughters had attended over the years, benefited from Michael’s enthusiasm and commitment. Friends and family members, including long‑time friend Beth Burnham of Topsham, said that his generosity and willingness to help others were the hallmarks of his character.
Michael is predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Judith. He is survived by his daughter, Katie Church, her husband Michael, and their two daughters, Margaret and Eloise. His siblings—Julie Bell (Pete) of Texas, Jane VanDerburgh (David) of Biddeford, Kris VanDerburgh (Mark) of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Chuck VanDerburgh of Waterville, and Tom VanDerburgh (Sheri) of Buxton—along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins, will also mourn his loss.
A celebration of life will be held on October 24 at 11 a.m. at the North Vienna United Methodist Church in Vienna, Maine. Family and friends are invited to honor Michael’s memory by wearing their favorite sports apparel, a nod to the man who could always tell which game was on.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to pay tribute are encouraged to donate to Camp Mechuwana at P.O. Box 277, Winthrop, ME 04364, in his name.
