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David Moses Bridges, 54
PLEASANT POINT - David Moses Bridges, 54, passed away Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, at home surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with cancer. David was born in Portland on May 17, 1962, son of Earl Bridges and Hilda (Soctomah) Lewis.
David spent his childhood in South Portland. As a young man, he attended Unity College and earned his Degree in Forestry. Later, he traveled widely, eventually settling in San Francisco, Calif., where he lived for many years. In the middle of his life, David returned home to Maine to reconnect with his family and the land that he loved. He attended The Boat School in Eastport, and later went to work at Benjamin River Marine and Brooklin Boat Yard, both in Brooklin, Maine.
It was during this time that David found the work that would become his life. While taking a class on "Traditional Birch Bark Canoe Making" at the Wooden Boat School in Brooklin, he became friends with Steve Cayard, the instructor. He would go on to apprentice and teach the class with Steve. In the years that followed, David developed his craft with passion, exploring all aspects of the history and technology. As his skill grew, he shared the craft in the Native communities, museums, schools, institutions and to all of us who were fortunate to know him. As his art flowered, David became a recognized master, widely sought after for commissions, teachings and lectures. His accomplishments, awards and accolades are far too numerous to mention. They would fill this page and more.
David was a proud Wabanaki, a Passamaquoddy native. His family has lived in this land for 12,000 years. His people, the Wabanaki, developed the canoe hull form that we all know over the last several thousand years. By the time David came to the craft, it was a highly developed and elegant art form which perfectly combines the talents of humanity with the gifts of the forest, to the enrichment and grace of both.
David was a fierce (and effective) environmentalist. Throughout his life, he walked bravely and directly into many battles for protection of the earth's air, water, land and creatures. He understood in his heart his deep connection to the living world around him. He was an eloquent speaker and was admired even by his adversaries. He spoke with humor, clarity and honesty. In the native tradition they would say that he had the great ability to make the truth sweet.
Above all, David was an extraordinary human being. The likes of which you rarely see these days, and the kind which the world needs a lot more of. He was a deeply honorable man, a lover of life (he lived it to the fullest.) Loved by everyone who knew him. He was a committed husband, father, son, brother and friend. You could not be unhappy when David was around. He had a quick wit and a sharp intelligence and would always leave you laughing. He had a huge presence in this world and will be deeply missed. We will cherish the memories of the times we shared, carry forth the energy and spirit that he exemplified and he will live in our hearts forever.
David was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, George and Clara Bridges; maternal grandparents Simon and Beatrice Soctomah; and an uncle Harvey. Surviving are his loving wife Patricia; his mother and stepfather, Hilda and Sidney Lewis, his father Earl Bridges of South Portland; three children, Tobias, Sebastian and Natanis; sister Jennifer, brother Darel Gabriel, brother Matthew and partner Colleen; father-in-law and mother-in-law Oscar Ayala and Ruth Rocabado Ayala; two brothers-in-law Gustavo and Oscar, three sisters-in-law Tania, Lorena, and Claudia; "The Aunties" and numerous uncles and cousins.
Visiting hours will be held at David's home at Sipayik, Pleasant Point, beginning 12 noon Monday, Jan. 23, 2017, until 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25. A traditional Native American Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Kevin J. Martin, 12 noon Wednesday, Jan. 25, at Beatrice Rafferty School, Pleasant Point. Burial will follow in the Tribal Cemetery. Arrangements by Mays Funeral Home, Calais & Eastport. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.maysfuneralhome.com.
Donations in David's memory
may be sent to:
The DMB Fund
PO Box 45
Eastport, ME 04631 or via
PayPal through The DMB Fund facebook page
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
We still memorise David and carry him and his legacy in our heart. A very special person.
Harm and Monique Ten Zijthoff-Nooij
Coworker
January 17, 2020
I FEEL SO BAD DAVID WAS A GREAT KID I REMEBER HANGING OUT WITH HIM....HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED
Lisa Waterhouse-Nappi
Friend
January 22, 2018
David was always a special cousin. He loved and respected all family and his heritage. David was always on the move but never to busy to stop by and see his Aunt Yolanda and Uncle Burton (Key Key). He was like the wind; you never knew when he would blow in. His visits were so unexpected, so enjoyable and so memorable. My childhood memories of David are unforgettable. From the beautiful Christmases spent on Pillsbury street to the fun filled ski trips. David had a beautiful mannerism and a special charm. I was so blessed to be related to him. David left and indelible mark on this earth before he was called home. David was always a special cousin. The strength, courage, and love he left behind will never fade away. His goodness will always remain. I will always remember the boy and the young man who was so carefree, with nothing to do but enjoy the day while riding his bike and later in years his motorcycle. My deepest sympathies to all family members. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love Linda Bridges.
February 1, 2017
Toni H
January 30, 2017
We are very sad with the passing away of our friend David Bridges. Worked with him at Blue Berry Cove in 1982 and 1983. David was a very committed person from whom we learned a lot about the native Americans, thinks we in Holland really weren't aware of. We met David at a reunion BBC in 2009. This was great to meet him again and learn more about his activities and building traditional kanoos. We'll burn candles for David and will remember him. Harm ten Zijthoff and Monique Nooij, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Harm ten Zijthoff
January 26, 2017
David my friend, I will miss you more than words can tell. You were like a brother to me . The outpouring of love for you is amazing but it is a testament to the compassionate and passionate life you led. May the four winds blow you safely home and may peace be with you and your family. Much love, Lars
Lars Knakkergaard
January 25, 2017
I do not think of him as gone. His spirit remains. He inspired so many of us to be better, to do more.
Sandy Lembo
January 24, 2017
Such sad news. He was such a talented man and leaves behind many fond memories for those who knew him.
Kathleen Coyne
January 24, 2017
Condolences to David's family, he was a very special man and he will be greatly misses by all those who knew him.
madonna soctomah
January 23, 2017
gone too soon :(
January 23, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of a gifted man I never knew. My son also has been treated for sinus cancer. Was his SNUC and pray for a cure.
tonie hall
January 23, 2017
My heart goes out all the people who knew and loved this special man. He always had nice words and a smile for everyone. He will be missed.
marie wasilefsky
January 23, 2017
So sorry to hear of Davis's passing, he fought a battle that is won by only a few.
Richard Silliboy
January 23, 2017
David you will always be remembered by us. You have touched so many lives and held on to your traditions with love and strength. Your spirit will live on in our lives and influence ours forever. We will always remember the wonderful times we shared as children. Those memories will live on and bring us great joy. We are proud of you for not only what you accomplished in your life but for the wonderful person you are. Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of your family. You will forever hold a special place in our hearts and minds. Love Buddy, Alison and Stephen.
Burt Bridges Jr.
January 23, 2017
Sorry to hear this,,,,,,,,,,I was David's Godmother.......Sadly we we lost touch over the years He obviously had a wonderful life.....my condolences to the family
Judy McSwigin
January 23, 2017
I was very saddened to hear about David. I look back fondly on our memories on Meeting House Hill in South Portland. My heart goes out to his family at this time. David made the world a better place.
Kim Dominicus
January 23, 2017
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