Michael A Rourke

Michael A. “Rock” Rourke of Haley Meadow Road in Griswold passed away unexpectedly on August 26, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. Mike was born in Norwich, CT on March 1, 1946, the son of the late Loretta (Fregault) and Daniel Rourke. He attended St. Mary School and graduated from Griswold High School.

He proudly served in the US Army during Vietnam. He continued to support Veterans and proclaim his honor to serve our country throughout his entire life.

After leaving the Armed Forces, Michael began his career as a carpenter at Electric Boat in Groton, serving as Union President for several years. He retired in 2013, after 46 years of faithful service.

Mike loved athletics, especially baseball and softball. He was a talented athlete, a pitcher on many local softball teams. He shared his passion as a long-time coach in the Jewett City Little League. He often shared stories of success and defeat, citing the many friends he made along the way. He was proud to be a part of experiences for many youth, but most proud to coach his own children along the way.

As fond as he was of his service to his country and community, Mike’s greatest love was his family. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Susan (Drobiak) Rourke; sons Jeffrey (Stephanie) Rourke and Christopher “Chip” Rourke; daughter Kelly Otero; and grandchildren Ayden, Lukas, Emma, and Miles. He leaves brothers James (Rita) Rourke and Dennis (Virginia) Rourke, and sister Margaret (Steven) Cook. He was predeceased by his parents and son, Michael Zimmerman, and is survived by his daughter Teri Ferguson, and their families. He leaves a large extended family and three special life-long friends – Richard Grabowski, Richard (Hip) Malek, and Gene Cyr.

Calling hours will be Thursday, September 1, 2022 from 4:00 – 6:00PM at the Gagne Piechowski Funeral Home, 490 Voluntown Road, Jewett City, CT. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Mary’s Church on Friday, September 2, 2022 at 10:00AM, followed by internment, with military honors, at Pachaug Cemetery. For online condolences, please go to www.gagnefuneralhome.com.

Mike’s love and loyalty for his fellow veterans guide us to request memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, to the Veterans Coffeehouse of Eastern CT. Donations can be made out to Dave Goddette, Treasurer, and mailed to the Griswold Senior Center, 22 Soule Street, Jewett City, CT 06351

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