Michael W. Sullenberger

On Monday, August 31, 2026, Michael Sullenberger’s spirit left his body to be with the Lord.  At the time of his passing, he was admitted to the Adler Hospice Center in Aldie, VA where he received tender care in the final days of his battle with cancer.  Michael was the beloved husband of Heather Sullenberger, the loving father of daughters Hilde and Fern Sullenberger, and the devoted son of Henry Sullenberger.  Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Kitty Sullenberger. 

Michael was born in Arlington County Hospital on January 4, 1963 and he was raised by his parents in Northern Virginia and for a time in Germany when his father’s government work assignment relocated the family during his elementary school years. 

Michael graduated from Lake Braddock High School in 1981 where he made lifelong friendships and lasting memories of team sports and athletic achievements.   

Michael graduated from James Madison University in 1986 where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business and was a 4-year letter winner for the JMU Dukes Football Team.   

In 1996, Michael started his career in Sports Field Management working with the athletic department outdoor facilities crew at George Mason University, he and his GMU crew were awarded 2 Sports Field Manager’s Association Field of the Year Awards for college soccer fields and college baseball fields, and he continued to recruit and build his team of sports field managers in anticipation of starting a new business in the industry.  

Michael and wife Heather married on May 16, 2002, and formed Game Day Incorporated on September 7, 2003.  The two worked together every day for 24 years to grow their family and their business to serve athletes and athletic fields and the Washington Metro Area.  “Every day is Game Day,” was a phrase that Michael would use to encourage his employees, customers, children, and friends to treat the practices and the preparations in life as importantly as the competitions.   

Michael attributed his successes in business and life to God’s grace and mercy.  He was a devout Christian who faithfully prayed for family and friends and strangers alike.  Michael’s flashing smile and bear hugs disarmed new acquaintances; his list of friends grew bigger every day of his life; and his most important prayer was always for others.  

Michael’s memory will live forever in the hearts of his family and friends.    Memorial contributions in Michael’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/