William Bradford Bertele

William Bradford Bertele, 56, of Bethany, CT died at home on February 25, 2023. He passed surrounded by his wife and loved ones. Brad was the cherished and devoted husband to his best friend, Melissa Pogwizd Bertele. He was born on

July 2, 1966, the son ofWilliam H. Bertele and the late Mop Prime. Brad proudly served his country in the United States Army as a helicopter crew chief in the 11th ACR. He continued to serve his fellow veterans as the Executive Director and Founder of the organization, Blackhorse 4 Heroes, Inc., which provided equinebased therapy to all those in need. Brad is survived by siblings, Amanda Bertele and Theodore (Kim) Bertele and nephewsMax and Sam, many aunts, uncles and cousins, especially Peter Prime andMark Sullivan. He will be greatlymissed by many, including his good friend, John Riccio and his young border collie, Berk.

Brad had an extensive and varied career in all aspects of aviation, including aircraft and helicopter pilot, mechanic and director of maintenance for many companies. Together with his wife, Melissa they operated Blackhorse Equestrian Center in Bethany, CT. His days off from flying about the world were spent either at the farm driving horses and working with his sheep or at the airport working on his personal airplane. Brad’s other passions included, riding his motorcycle, cooking, especially his farm-raised lamb, entertaining friends and family and always telling a great story. He loved mentoring others on coping with PTS and encouraging youth to pursue and explore an interest in aviation and military service.

Visiting hours will be Saturday, March 11, 2023 from 1 to 4pm in the Lupinski Funeral Home, Inc. 821 State Street, New Haven. Military Honors will follow. Readings and words of remembrance at 3pm. Burial is private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can bemade in Brad’s honor to the Stratford Eagle Squadron Civil Air Patrol, 1100 Stratford Road, Stratford, CT 06615. Share a memory and sign the guest book for Brad online at www.lupinskifuneralhome. com