Ted L Bridges
Ted L. Bridges, devoted husband, father, papa, brother and friend, passed away unexpectedly during a medical procedure on August 16th 2022, at the age of 85.
Ted is preceded in death by his father Cary “Bob” Bridges, mother Vera Smith Bridges and brother Jim Bridges. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jo Bridges; three children: Craig Bridges, Cara Blenz (Jeff), Tana Ridgeway (Jim); six grandchildren: Jessica Bridges, McKenna Blenz-Alafgani (Jason), Connor Ridgeway, Chandler Ridgeway, Chad Blenz, Katherine Ridgeway, and many other family members and dear friends.
Ted was the oldest of eight siblings whom he loved dearly and maintained a close relationship with throughout the years, including Judy Brodeur, Jennifer Rieger, Jim Bridges, Phil Bridges, Sandy Hinrichs, Michelle Nanney, and Chuck Bridges. He graduated in 1955 from Olympia High School, where he met and fell in love with his high school sweetheart, Jo Sulenes. They were married in 1959, after his return from two proud years of service in the Navy, aboard the USS Columbus. After graduating from St. Martin’s College in 1962, Ted 
found his dream job working in the beer industry, from which he retired after 35 years.
Ted enjoyed the simple things in life like solving crossword puzzles, fishing for the big ones in Alaska, and crabbing in the San Juan Islands. Ted and Jo traveled to many places over the years, but his favorite was Kauai. He had a lifelong passion for sports and was a season ticket holder for the Seahawks, Sonics, and UW Huskies for many years.
Above all, Ted was deeply committed to his family, and cherished the time they would spend together. He especially loved his role as Papa Ted. He was known by many for his holiday fudge and his love of Frank Sinatra tunes. He will be lovingly remembered by us all for his kind, gentle heart, and his loving embrace.
An intimate family gathering is being planned for October 8th, 2022 to honor and celebrate Ted’s long and well lived life. Please feel free to share any fond memories you may have of Ted below.
The post first appeared on Barton Family Funeral Service.