Birch Harbor
Richard “Dickie” Colby Bridges Sr.
Dickie, 75, died peacefully May 2, 2021, surrounded by family, after a 15-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born in 1946 in Ellsworth, son of Chauncey Bridges and the late Corinne and Allison Bishop.
Dickie grew up in Corea and graduated from Sumner Memorial High School in 1964. He proudly served 10 years in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam as a gunner’s mate. He often reminisced about the sights and people from that time. Cruising the Mediterranean on the USS Salamonie and running a rifle range were some of his favorite memories.
In any season, you could find Dickie outdoors — gardening, hunting, fishing, clamming or with his dog. He had fond memories of being on the farm with Gramp Dyer, aboard many a boat, camping, going on vacation and enjoying good times with friends. He worked in commercial fishing, lumber delivery and enjoyed all kinds of physical labor. Dickie liked to split wood and build things and make his garden grow. After a day’s work, he loved to relax — glass of bourbon in hand — and watch TV or talk it over.
Dickie spent his last decade at home in Birch Harbor, where he was fortunate to remain through the duration of his illness — a testament to the love and care of his devoted wife of 42 years, Jean. Jean was the unwavering leader of an army of caregivers. The family is grateful for the blessings of providers Kerry Crowley, Cliff Singer and Rachel Muncey; homecare workers Tammy, Danielle, Nancy, Leigh, Lisa; nurse Michelle Spriggs; and especially thankful to Katherine and hospice.
Dickie was a skilled marksman and, at times, a less-than-patient teacher. As an enthusiastic storyteller and conversationalist, he led with a kind heart who could relate to anyone he met. He was the number 1 cheerleader for his children, and a lively dancer. He will be forever remembered with a twinkle in his eyes and incredible charm.
He is survived by wife, Jean; his children, Crystal (Babe) and fiancée, Jess; Joshua and wife, Megan; Bobby, Michael, Tammy and JR; special grandchildren Grafton, Blake and Jessika. He was also a loving brother, uncle and friend to many.
A celebration of life with close family and friends will be held at a later date. In his memory, donations may be made to the Schoodic Community Fund. Please make checks payable to Maine Community Foundation and designate Schoodic Community Fund on the memo line or note, 245 Main St., Ellsworth, ME.
