In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: Robert Bridges Memorial Scholarship
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Lynough Bridges, a beloved coach, educator, and community pillar in Dearborn, Michigan. Robert, affectionately known as "Rocky," passed away on July 30, 2024, at the age of 93.
Born on June 19, 1931, Robert was a proud graduate of Fordson High School, class of 1948. Following high school, he worked at Ford Motor Company before answering the call to serve his country in the Korean Conflict. He enlisted in the Army in June 1953 and was honorably discharged in August 1955.
In August 1956, Robert married Christine (Stonik), the love of his life. Their union was one of love at first sight and lasted for 54 wonderful years until Christine's passing.
Robert's teaching and coaching career began at Dearborn High School in 1956, where he taught mathematics for 42 years and coached Track and Field and Cross Country for an astounding 63 years, from 1956 to 2017. Over the years, he also coached football and wrestling, leaving an indelible mark on countless student-athletes. (He also coached football at St. Patrick Catholic High School and cross country at Sacred Heart and Gabriel Richard Catholic High Schools.)
His remarkable achievements include being named the Michigan Interscholastic Track Coaches Association Coach of the Year in 1993 and 1995. In 1994, he was inducted into the Michigan Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and in 2011, he was honored by the City of Dearborn Sport Legends Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the National High School Association Hall of Fame in 2012.The track at Dearborn High was named the Robert "Rocky" Bridges Track in 1988, and the field was named in his honor in 2009.
Robert's coaching record is a testament to his dedication and skill: over 500 track dual meet wins with just 50 losses, over 30 league titles, more than 30 All-League titles, and 19 Regional Titles. He often said, "The greatest honor has been my wife Christine of 54 years and my six children who understood what I was doing." He also cherished his 40-year coaching partnership with his good friend, George Arrick, and valued the support of over eight athletic directors and numerous administrators.
Robert deeply appreciated the parents who entrusted him with their sons and daughters and took pride in the many student-athletes who went on to compete at the college level in Track and Cross Country.
Robert is preceded in death by his beloved wife Christine, his parents John and Kathleen Bridges, his brother John H. Bridges, and his sons Timothy and Robert. He is survived by his children Lynn (Scott) Adsit of Renton, WA, Michelle Bridges (Philip Petruska) of Norfolk, VA, Lea Ann Bridges-Barker (Steve Barker) of Dearborn, MI, Thomas (Yvonne) Bridges of Trenton, MI, and Kristopher (Lisa) Bridges of Woodstock, GA. He was a loving grandfather to Bob, KC, Nicholas, Calvin, Spenser, Christalyn, Claudia, Anderson, Nia (Riley), Alexander, Jennifer, and Billy. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Robert Lynough Bridges will be remembered not only for his remarkable career and achievements but also for his profound impact on the lives of his students, athletes, colleagues, and the Dearborn community. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations. Rest in peace, Dad. Coach Bridges, your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you. You always said, "Find the race", and you found and lived "your best race!"
Visitation will be Thursday, August 8th from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. and Friday, August 9th from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Dearborn Location of the Howe-Peterson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Rosary Friday 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be Saturday 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 22430 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48124, to celebrate Robert's life and legacy. He will be laid to rest at St. Hedwig Catholic Cemetery, Dearborn Hts., MI.
