Mike Cortese

5/11/1958 - 9/18/2025

Mike touched the sky every day through his work and now soars freely beyond it. He leaves behind his wife, Michelle; his children, Megan Cortese-Woodworth (Mike) and Cameron Cortese (Kelly); and his stepchildren, Sean Lessard, Ryan Gavin (Katie), and Autumn Potts (Alex). He was proudly known as “Boots,” a beloved title first given to him by his nieces and nephews and later carried on by his grandchildren—Reese, Vivianne, Gavin, and Emma. He is also survived by his siblings, Anne Sacks-Berg (Dave), David Cortese (Annie), Catherine Penizotto, and Teresa Seeley (Dan). Mike was predeceased by his parents, Jeanne and Sam, his brother TJ, and his sister Michele.

Growing up as a “kid from the Valley,” Mike often joked that his goal in life was to win the game of Monopoly with the words “I’ve Won” engraved in stone. True to form, he approached life with a strong work ethic, determination, and heart that always surpassed the goals he set for himself. Throughout his life, he discovered what it meant to truly win at life.

Mike found peace in simple joys—his work, a good breakfast, and playing cards—where silence was just as welcome as conversation. He built a successful business, Northeast Site & Tower, rooted in hard work and character, which he summed up with the humble words: “I climb towers.” Known for his genuine spirit, he treated family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers with kindness and respect, always willing to lend a helping hand. When asked what brought him the most joy, his answer was always the same: helping others. A quiet observer, Mike listened deeply and freely shared his knowledge, tips, and tricks with anyone eager to learn the “right way” to do something—or, as some would say, the “Mike Cortese way.”

To honor Mike, we encourage everyone to share breakfast with those you love—whether in silence or conversation—to nourish both your heart and your body. Instead of donations, we ask that you honor Mike by helping someone in need or offering a simple act of kindness—just as he always did. May his spirit remind us that the truest heights are reached through kindness, humility, and love.