DAVID R.T. BRIDGES

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DAVID R.T. BRIDGES It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of David Bridges, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend and business leader on February 22, 2007 at the Riverview Health Center. David passed peacefully with his wife and daughters at his side while listening to his favourite country music with his cowboy hat close by. David will be forever cherished by his wife Claudia of 27 years; daughters, Meaghan (affectionately called Lumper' by her precious dad) (Mike) and Lise; grandchildren, Tyson, Kiara, Jesse and his unborn precious angel. He will be lovingly remembered by his brothers and sisters, Patricia, Colin (Liz), Garfield (Diane), Jeffrey (Diane), Hazel Baldwin (Dale), Joey Hamoline (Philip); sister-in-law Marlene; brothers-in-law, Greg (Claudette), Reid (Denise), and David (Sheri) and numerous nieces and nephews. David's many friends, employees and business associates were an important part of his life and each will cherish their special memories of him. David was predeceased by his father Allan; mother Elizabeth; brothers, Bill and Winston; sister-in-law Theresa; and his mother and father-in-law, Charles and Dorothy McClelland. David was born in Winnipeg on February 18, 1950. He was raised and lived happily in St. Vital all of his life. In 1967, David embarked on what evolved into a very successful career journey, by joining the Paul Moore Co. His unique talents and skill were quickly apparent as he rose through the ranks to become shop foreman. In 1988 David was recruited to the position of General Manager by the new owners, Champion Industries of North Carolina. Four years later, David seized the opportunity to purchase the company, renaming it Champ Stainless, and embarking on the challenging adventure of Owner. David was extremely grateful for all the incredible recognition and assistance that was offered to him by Hank Holt throughout this transfer of ownership. His support continues to this day. In the beginning, Magikist became a valued customer and was in essence the backbone of the company's viability at that time. The industry quickly recognized Champ's reputation for quality, diversification and customer service and its customer base quickly expanded. Champ Industries rapid growth and diversification to the United States, and overall success is a testament to David's skill, powerful instinct and calculated risk taking. David always attributed much of his success to the loyal and dedicated staff of Champ Industries. He also valued New Flyer Industries as a key player in the growth and sucess of Champ Industries. The legacy of Champ Industries that David created for his children and grandchildren will live on forever in memory of him. David's other passion in life was his cottage on the Winnipeg River near Kenora, ON. He and Claudia were able to achieve this dream after many enjoyable years of camping at Hillside Beach and Dogtooth Lake with their children, fishing with their family and friends, and many memorable gatherings at the Oasis. We will all remember David tearing across the river as captain of his ship with Tina Turner blaring and a terrified tuber crashing over the waves behind him. David's dock always seemed to be the gathering spot of the island. Many of us will have very special memories of those sun-drenched days on the dock. David was very excited and proud to be able to take his family on three very special vacations in recent years. They all enjoyed snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, para-sailing and so much more. Claudia and the family have so many incredible memories to cherish from these trips. David was so happy to be able to celebrate his 57th birthday with many family and friends on February 18, 2007. He was still able to walk into the room and make the party come alive like all of us will remember he was always able to do. David's commanding presence, kindness, generosity and willingness to give the shirt off of his back are qualities that we will never forget. His sometimes abrupt and loud style of communicating was often misunderstood, but was his own unique way of testing our strength, wisdom and loyalty. Let us all have comfort with the knowledge that David's soul is now as free as the Eagles' that he loved to watch and enjoy from many special spots at the lake. Special thanks to Dr. Craig Hildahl for his genuine caring and concern for David over the years. David wanted Sheri to know that she was his guardian angel' as she helped him travel through the journey of his illness with courage and incredible strength. Claudia, Meaghan and Lise extend their appreciation to Wayne for the laughter and comfort he provided David during his final weeks and hours at Riverview. The family also wants to send a special thanks to their family and friends that have offered their encouragement, support and love during these difficult months, and to the staff of Riverview Health Center. A lot of guys brag. Real men don't have to. Their actions speak louder than words.' MISS ME BUT LET ME GO When I come to the end of the road And the sun has set for me, I want no rites in a gloom filled room Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little, but not too long And not with your head bowed low Remember the love that we once shared Miss me but let me go. For this is a journey we all must take And each must go alone, It's part of the Master's plan A step on the road to Home. So when you are lonely and sick at heart Go to the friends we know, And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds Miss me But let me go. Service and reception to follow at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 28. Thomson Funeral Home, 669 Broadway St., Winnipeg, MB 783-7211. Interment to follow at a later date.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 26, 2007