Michael Seppala, of Edgartown, MA, and formerly Amherst, MA, departed this life in the company of family on August 7th, 2025. Born in Dorchester, MA, February 4, 1949, he was the son of Frederick W. Seppala and Louise Seppala, and brother to Susan N. Lundberg and Sandra Louise Nagle.
Michael received a BA in Biology and Art from UMass Boston and an MFA in Photography from UMass Amherst. He worked for many years at UMass Amherst, first in the Photo Department and later for the School of Education. A strong believer in the value of education, good stories, and life experience, he went on to serve as Vice President of Bunker Hill Community College before retiring to Martha’s Vineyard, a place he loved and called home for many years.
As a young man, Michael embraced adventure and photography. After growing up in Boston, he moved to Cape Cod and later to West Stockbridge, a period he spoke of with warmth and fondness, as one might speak of an impactful teacher or mentor.
From the Berkshires he set off for Europe, traveling by van and photographing. His photography was compassionate and inquisitive. It was in Greece and Turkey that he found the greatest inspiration, capturing images of his journeys and the people he encountered along the way. This body of work was included in his MFA show at UMass. Later in life, he loved sharing photographs of these times and often told stories of border crossings and mishaps; tales that reflected his youthful spark, independence, and determination, qualities that stayed with him all his life.
Michael was an avid sailor and boat enthusiast, whose love for the ocean was deep and personal. He delighted in sharing his passion with family and friends. He loved sailing in the waters of Vineyard Sound and took many trips to the Caribbean to sail and explore with his wife Lori. His happiest moments were spent anchored off the Elizabeth Islands, watching the sunset from deck with good company and a glass of wine, the songs of Bob Dylan or Mississippi John Hurt playing softly in the background. In later years, his love for sailing gave way to a passion for cycling, and he rode daily until the end.
Those who knew Michael knew his warm smile and his love for dogs — he had many throughout the years and there was usually one by his side.
Michael is survived by his loving wife, Laura (Lori) Seppala, his sons, Chi and Caleb Seppala, their mother, Mary Seppala and his stepsons Luke and Kyle Polewaczyk.
Services will be private. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to:
Hospice and Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard
455 State Rd. PMB 244
Vineyard Haven, MA 02568