Michael Tyler Boutchie, 44, of Gloucester, beloved son of Richard and Suzanne Morse, of Ipswich, succumbed to his lifelong battle with addiction on May 15, 2020, at Addison Gilbert Hospital in Gloucester.
Michael was born to Gary and Suzanne (Lawrence Boutchie) Morse on March 28, 1976, at Beverly Hospital. He was the second of three children. Michael attended the Ipswich School system.
As a little boy, Michael was a charmer, referred to as “Handsome Mike,” a nickname that stuck with him to the end. He loved performing tricks on anything with wheels on it, clunking around in his “real” cowboy boots, and making friends. Michael possessed a kind heart, a sensitive soul and a keen sense of humor. He was very social and his world revolved around his tight group of friends and their various adventures, and occasional misadventures.
As a young man, Michael couldn’t wait to join the ranks of his family’s restaurant, The Village, in Essex. He was very proud of his affiliation as a fourth-generation family employee. Additionally, he was a bartender at The Blue Marlin in Essex for several years.
Michael’s struggle with alcohol began in his teen years. His dreams of obtaining a fulfilled life were repeatedly dashed by his inability to conquer his addiction. Concerted family support could not spare him. He described his battle with alcoholism as “Dancing with the Devil.” They have now danced their last dance, and the devil won. May the battle be replaced by peace.
In addition to his parents, Michael leaves behind his older sister, Heather (Boutchie); and brother-in-law, David Connerty, of Bradford; his younger brother, Ryan; and sister-in-law, Amy of Bristol, R.I.; a half-sister, Erin (Boutchie); and brother-in-law, Dylan Murphy of Newbury; as well as two step-sisters, Danielle (Morse) Restaino and Jenna (Morse) Fritz, and Michael’s companion, Stefanie Poltack, who provided light in his final months.
Michael’s greatest pride and joy in life were his nephews and niece. Camden Connerty, Kai, Ella and Chase Boutchie and Emmitt and Desmond Murphy. He followed their lives on Facebook and was always amused and delighted by their happiness.
Michael was predeceased by his grandparents, Robert and Helen Lawrence and Maynard and Muriel Boutchie, all of Ipswich, in addition to the recent passing of numerous friends.
There will be no services at this time. Interment will be private. Arrangements by Whittier Porter Funeral Home. Donations may be made in Michael’s memory to Learn To Cope at www.learn2cope.org. To send a condolence to his family, please visit www.whittier-porter.com.
