Michael J. Spratford, 63, of Middletown passed away suddenly April 11, 2020, while he was a resident of the New Jersey Firemen’s Home in Booton. Michael was a beloved, son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, nephew, cousin and friend.
He was predeceased by his mother Geraldine Spratford and his oldest son Michael A. Spratford, both in 2014, and by his father Walter W. Spratford, also in 2020.
A lifelong resident of Middletown Mike is survived by his wife Linda Phillips Spratford; son Steve Spratford; daughter Angela Spratford; his sister Elaine Spratford; his stepchildren, John and Megan Maguire, (Owen, Declan and Cullen), Michael and Melissa Maguire, (Lilly and Connor) and Ryan Maguire and fiancé Lauren Florio; uncle Donald and aunt Evelyn; and a long list of cousins, in-laws, stepnieces and nephews, many dear and close friends and extended family.
Michael absolutely loved life. His favorite saying was “Life is short.”
Mike was a life member of the Old Village Fire Company and the Middletown Township Fire Department having served over 45 years. Soon after joining the fire department Mike began his advancement within the ranks where he achieved the rank of lieutenant and then ultimately the rank of captain where he proudly served for three years. During his time with the Old Village Mike served on numerous committees and was instrumental in the purchase of Support Unit 213 which was the very first of its kind in the township.
Mike was also on the board of trustees for the fire academy, serving as the safety director. He was also an exempt member of the NJ State Fireman’s Association and a member of the Fairview First Aid Squad in Middletown where he also held the rank of captain. Mike obtained his EMT certification early in the program before it became a requirement. He achieved life membership status after serving over 20 years with the organization.
For many years Mike worked as a contracts negotiator for various aerospace defense contractors. An opportunity presented itself and Mike moved into the Yellow Page sales for NJ Bell. He retired from Verizon in 2006.
The article originally appeared in the April 22 – 28, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
