Michael Patrick Close, 63, of Bradford, passed away on Sunday, August 6, 2023, at his residence.
Born September 8, 1959 in Bradford, he was a son of the late Charles and Patricia (Hannon) Close.
Michael was a 1977 graduate of Bradford Area High School. While in high school he worked at JC Penney, and after graduating was hired at Dresser Manufacturing, where he worked for ten years.
In 1988 he graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania Police Training Academy. After graduating he returned to Bradford and began working at the McKean County Sheriff's Department. He also worked part time as a security guard for the Bradford City Water Authority.
On January 12,1990, Michael embarked on his journey with the Bradford City Police Department, taking the oath of patrolman. On April 5, 2004, he achieved the rank of Sergeant. He was then promoted to Chief of Police on January 7, 2008, and held that position until his retirement on March 17, 2010. As Chief, he was proud to have established the Emergency Response Team, the Street Crimes Unit, and to have secured grants and donations for cameras, tasers, firearms, and other equipment, including new uniforms and a fresh paint scheme on the patrol cars.
Throughout his 20-year career, Michael served across all shifts within the police department, performing and serving in various positions and roles within the patrol unit. He was awarded the Policeman of the Year Award in 1999, receiving commendations from the United States Senate, the United States House of Representatives, Governor Tom Ridge of Pennsylvania, Mayor Connie Cavallaro, and many others.
Beyond his duty in the police department, he was an active member of the William Hanley Senior Lodge #67 Fraternal Order of Police, serving the role of Vice President for several years. He was a member of St. Bernard Church, Fraternal Order of the Eagles #2432, VFW Post 212, American Legion Post 108, the Marche Club, Mt. Jewett Sportsmen’s Club, and bowled on the Dresser Hurricanes Bowling Team.
Michael was an avid weightlifter, competing in powerlifting competitions with his tight knit group of friends. He won numerous trophies for bench press and deadlift, and multiple medals at the Pennsylvania State Police Olympics.
He was a Formula 1 enthusiast, enjoyed going to Buffalo Bills games, attending concerts (especially the Beach Boys), participating in shooting sports, riding motorcycles, exploring old settlements, camping, excursions on antique trains, exploring historical sites, antique engine shows, going to industrial revolution era museums, antique shops, swap meets, and flea markets. He collected Lionel trains, antique record players, and shortwave radios. He facilitated numerous charitable donations as CEO of “Close Brothers Trucking” as well.
He also had a love for animals, especially his son’s dog, Oscar, who was faithfully by his side in his final months.
His greatest joy in life was being with his family, children, and most especially his grandchildren.
He is survived by one daughter, Jessica (John) Goyette, of St. Johns, FL, three sons, Ryan (Gail) Close, of Bradford, Shane (Angel Bryer) Close, of Bradford, Evan (Julia) Close, of Milwaukee, WI, the mother of his children, Kathleen (Keeney) Close, of Warren PA, five grandchildren, Stella, Raya, Zoe, Caleb, and Arianna, three sisters, Katherine “Becky” (Bill) Yunkun, of Glen Burnie, MD, Dr. Laurie (Arthur) Bjorlykke, of Poolesville, MD, Mary (Rich) Wagoner, of Bethel Park, PA, two brothers, John Close, of Bradford, and Mark (Jacki) Close, of Olean NY.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Richard J. "Bo" Close, Daniel J. Close, and one sister, Molly Brown.
Family will receive friends on Monday, August 14, 2023, from 5 PM to 7 PM at the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc., 33 South Avenue in Bradford.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, at St. Bernard Church with Fr. Jim Gutting as celebrant. Burial will be at St. Bernard Cemetery.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com