Bridgewater Drowning Victim Had 'Larger Than Life Attitude'

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Michael Ryan Woskey "has left a lasting impression on all the lives he has touched." Now community members are mourning his death following his drowning on Monday at the Chimney Rock Reservoir in Bridgewater.

"To say that Michael had a big personality would be an understatement to his larger than life attitude. Michael wasn't just a person — he was an experience," according to his obituary from Higgins Home for Funerals in Watchung.

Woskey, 37, of Somerville, was a loving son, brother, uncle and friend to all whose lives he touched. He was especially known for his loud fashion and hairstyles.

"For his entire adult existence, Michael made sure that his energy and presence was felt in any room he was in," according to his obituary. "He prided himself on his unique individuality. If you told him to go left, he would go right just to prove to you that he made his own rules. That was one of the many things that made him so special."

Born April 26, 1983 in Plainfield to Michael and Kathy, Woskey leaves behind three siblings Tara, Heather and her husband Craig, and Matthew, and his nephew Carter.

Woskey was also a huge animal lover as he worked as a veterinary technician at numerous animal hospitals around New Jersey. He also leaves behind his beloved chihuahua, Foxy.

"He is truly unforgettable and will be greatly missed," the obituary states.

Memorial contributions are asked to be made to Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary or the Samaritan Homeless Interim Program (SHIP).

A public visitation will be held Sunday at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, from 3 to 6 p.m. Funeral services are private.

Woskey had jumped off one of the cliffs at Washington Valley Park and began to swim across the reservoir. While he was swimming he began to struggle. His friends lost sight of him and called 911. He was later found by authorities on Tuesday. Read More: Drowning Victim Found, Identified At Bridgewater Reservoir

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