Dr. Michael J. Brothers

Doctor Michael J. Brothers, beloved husband of Elizabeth (Varhue) Brothers died on June 7, 2022 at the home he loved on Apple Tree Lane in Portland, CT. Michael was born on January 18, 1956, in Taunton, MA to the late Beverly and John Brothers. Michael graduated from the University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine in 1981. He first practiced at Clinton Veterinary Hospital with Doctor Arthur Scheld, who became a lifelong friend. In 1985, Mike purchased and renovated Middletown Veterinary Hospital in Middletown, where he created a family practice. He not only cared for, with love and compassion his animal patients, he also cared for their owners as well, and this is what set Middletown Veterinary apart from all the rest. Dr. Brothers was loved and respected by his staff, all which stayed many years to work beside him.

Mike loved fast cars. He raced at Lime Rock Speedway for many years and later became an instructor and taught others to race. He loved driving his Porsche to work every day, but eventually needed a four door vehicle to accommodate his family of six rescue canines who accompanied him to work each day.

In addition to his wife, he leaves a son, Andrew (Amy) of Minneapolis, MN; a younger sister, Carol (John) Costova of Raynham, MA; and his aunt and uncle, Lorraine and John Miller of Taunton, MA. He also leaves brothers-in-law, Bill Varhue of Middletown, and Walter (Mary Ellen) Varhue of Milton, Vermont. Additionally, he leaves numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  Mike was fortunate to have many lifelong friends, notably Jackie Smaga, Jane Piggott and Donna DeRota. He also had a special friend, Oleg Vechesloff, with whom he spent many happy days over the past few years. Mike cherished all his pets, including Slicker Ann, Zoe, Buddy John, Sadie Lucille, Addie Mae, and Murphy. He leaves Gwendolyn, Hannah, Sully and Woody, who will miss him terribly.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, June 13th at 10:00 am at Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Middletown.  Burial will follow in Indian Hill Cemetery. Family and friends may call on Sunday afternoon from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church Street, Middletown.  For friends who prefer, donations in Mike’s memory may be made to Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 10 Elm Street, Middletown, CT 06457.  To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

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