Obituary of Richard A. "Dick" Bridger
MOHAWK – Mr. Richard A. “Dick” Bridger, 80, a longtime resident of Mohawk, NY, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home with his devoted family at his side on Sunday evening, October 14, 2018.
He was born on January 24, 1938, in Ilion, NY, a son of the late Randall F. and Emma (Smith) Bridger. He was an Ilion High School graduate, ‘Class of 1956.’ He furthered his education through Morrisville Ag & Tech College and Utica School of Commerce. Dick studied OMEGA courses in Commercial Lending, Consumer Lending and Business Development. He attended New York State Bank’s School of Agriculture and New York State’s Banker’s Consumer Credit School.
On June 2, 1962, Dick and the former Marilyn J. Fenton joined in marriage at the United Methodist Church in Mohawk. Dick served our country with the United States Air Force, 1957 until 1963. He was last employed for 12 years as a Senior Financial Service Representative at First Source Federal Credit Union, Herkimer, NY. From 1961 until 1994 his roles at Fleet Bank, Utica ranged from Vice President / Manager, Consumer Credit-Quality Control Credit Review, Assistant Vice President & Senior Loan Coordinator.
He was a previous member of the executive committee of the General Herkimer Council Boy Scouts of America, Board member of the Mohawk Valley United Fund, and Treasurer of the Weller Library Commission, Village of Mohawk. He was a previous member of the Tryon County Militia which participated in the Bicentennial Celebrations throughout the Mohawk Valley. Dick loved his group of “ROB” friends that he would have lunch with once a month at the New Hartford American Legion and their waitress would refer to the group as the “ROMEO’S.” Another favorite pastime of his was participating at hunting camp in the town of Gray.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Marilyn; his son, Michael Bridger and his wife, Stacia, of West Winfield, NY; his grandchildren, Brandon (Kate), Kieghley, Sydney (Alfred) and Sophie; and his great – granddaughter, Jenavive. He was predeceased by his grandson, Jacob Bridger; and a brother, Donald.
A funeral service for Dick will be held on Friday, October 19, 2018, at 11:00 AM at the Mohawk Reformed Church. Following the funeral service all are invited to a reception downstairs at the church. The family will privately hold a burial service at Mohawk Cemetery and then return to the reception. There are no calling hours. Those wishing to remember Dick in a special way may consider a donation in his memory to Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the church service. The family is so very appreciative of the care extended by Hospice and for Chaplain Ken Palmer for joining us on this very special day to honor Dick, as well as cousin, Harvey Smith who will offer the eulogy.
Dick and Marilyn planned all services with Funeral Directors Harry & Kevin Enea and Martin Ciaccia of The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road (Town of Frankfort) Ilion, NY. (315) 894-8000. To add to his online memorial, please visit www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.
