Milton, N.H.
Chancy Curtis Bridges, 97, passed away May 25, 2021. He is now able to rest after “a good long run.”
Chancy was born in Corea to Ervin and Floris Bridges. He was raised in the lobster fishing community and worked alongside his father, developing a passion for the traditions and people of “his” coastal town. A nagging longing to return, even for a visit, followed him throughout his life. He truly loved his home.
He served in the Air Corps, stationed in France, during World War II. His off-duty time was spent taking on opponents in a soldier’s boxing club and charming the hearts of a few mademoiselles. He was employed in the civil service system, supplying the commissaries of Bangor and Pease Air Force Base, N.H. He also spent many years working in property maintenance.
He was entertained by sports of all kinds. The Red Sox, Celtics and the New York Giants frequented his television. He so enjoyed fishing, especially the autumn trips to Chamberlain Lake and all the shenanigans that were had there. The trips were always fueled by a few bourbon and gingers and one evening was capped with brotherly howling at the moon. They called it “the call of the lonesome hunter.” He delighted in hunting, but missed a few trophies when nature called, instead earning a plaque that read “Wrong gun in hand.” He and his “one-liners” were often the highlight of any gathering. Once exclaiming, “I shot that deer from so far away, it was found by a son from a previous marriage!” His humor and unique character always made these outings extra memorable for all involved.
He married the love of his life, Ruby, in 1948, spending 67 years together until her passing in 2015. He adored her, the family and home she created and was proud to take her out and show off her beauty. They delighted in their campers and the good time and friends they had at the Happy Valley and Red Barn Campgrounds. They were a social couple and were always on the town, enjoying the friends they made at Dick Stacey’s and in later years, the American Legion and VFW in Okeechobee, Fla. Their dog, Saba, joined them on their adventures to and from their home in Florida and was a beloved companion to Chan.
Chan is survived by his brother Ervin Bridges and wife, Mary, of Florida; his children, Jeff Bridges and partner Jim Bowdoin of Kennebunk, Sherrill Bridges of Vassalboro, Wayne Bridges and wife, Teri, of Milton, N.H., and Lorne Bridges and wife, Celeste, of Bangor; daughters-in-law Jean Bridges of Holden, Georgia Willis of Bangor and Jean Bridges of Birch Harbor; 17 grandchildren and numerous great- and great-great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, Ruby Bridges, his brother Floyd, a sister, Selma, and his sons Tommy, Dickie and Alton Bridges as well as a special daughter-in-law, Arlene Bridges.
A remembrance service and celebration of life will be held in Corea on June 19 from 2-4 p.m.