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Westerville, Ohio

Bradley Eldridge Obituary

Eldridge Bradley Allen Eldridge passed away peacefully in St Ann's Palliative Care Unit, age 42, on September 9, 2014. He spent his childhood years at Central College Presbyterian Church and choose to worship at the Vineyard his adult life. He enjoyed being very active in Boy Scouts and became an Eagle Scout. Brad attended Westerville South High School, graduating with honors; lettering in academics, cross country, swimming, track, all four years. He was in the choral singing group and the play Grease. He was also a class officer. He graduated from Otterbein with honors and a proud member of Pi Kappa Phi. At 19 years of age, he became a quadriplegic. That didn't stop him from embracing life to the fullest. He was a speaker for Think First, and assistant RA for two years while in OSU's graduate school. He lived at Creative Living, where he could be very independent; was the Resident Manager. His apartment showed his love of nature and the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Brad annually vacationed in the up north all of his young life and returned twice in his adult life, much to his family's joy. He flew to Connecticut to be interviewed on the Gale King Show. He loved all his UDC friends and the fun times they shared. He loved his Steelers. Brad was a Lay Councilor for the Vineyard. Brad had a thrust knowledge and enjoyed seeking out other's viewpoints and also loved helping others with life's problems. His positive influence will continue to live in our hearts and minds. Brad is preceded in death by his beloved Granddaddy and Grandmamma Miller; Grandpa Eldridge; and nephew Jeremy Burns. He will be lovingly missed by his family, parents, Becky and Denny; brothers, Steve (Marijane), Byan (Missy); their children, Liberty and Hope; Jeff (Shelly); Brad dearly loved being an uncle to Brandon (Veronica), Allyson, and Madison. He will also be missed by Aunt Marsha and Uncle Dan Molloy; and cousins, Donny, Elizabeth (Steve), and little Christian. We wish to thank all of the health care people that have touched Brad's lifeDr. Michael Waluzak, Ty Ward, and staff; staff of St. Ann's Hospital, special thanks to the Palliative Care Unit; his home health care staff; and many others who have given him so much loving care. Family will receive friends 4-7 p.m. Thursday at HILL FUNERAL HOME, 220 S. State St., Westerville where a Celebration of His Life will take place at 10:30 a.m. Friday. Interment following at Trenton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers his family has suggested gifts to Creative Living, 150 W. 10th Ave. Columbus OH 43201. Brad's life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understand the quality of life far exceeds the quantity of time in which he lived. Remembrances of Brad can be left at www.HillFuneral.com.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Sep. 10 to Sep. 11, 2014.
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Memories and Condolences
for Bradley Eldridge

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Think of you often Becky and our days at St Ann´s. A woman of grace & courage, you have always been an inspiration to me. Take care

Mel Heckman

September 4, 2023

Been going thru pictures and came across cross country and track ones that has Brad and my son Doug we always loved watching him race! He was such a wonderful caring soul

Brandon's

Friend

September 4, 2022

Thinking of you and your family Becky & knowing you miss Brad every day

Mel Heckman

September 4, 2020

Becky & Denny - Thinking of you. I know you must miss Brad every day, but maybe a little more at this time. Hope you are both well. ♥ Mel Heckman

Mel Heckman

September 4, 2019

Very sorry to hear of Brad's passing. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to his friends and family.

David Augello

July 27, 2015

Miss you. Always an inspiration.

L'olleria Jen diaz elano

April 18, 2015

Brad was a great man. He inspired us all in running. I ran with him in high school. So sad to hear of his passing. As others have said, run free!!! You are an angel now.

October 5, 2014

Brad was one of the kindest persons I have had the opportunity to care for as a home health nurse. We had many meaningful conversations as well as jokes and laughs.

Cynthia

September 13, 2014

I remember watching him dance at an Otterbein function. And then several days later I was woken up in the middle of the night to learn of his accident. Everyone said he would handle the situation gracefully. I have had a lot of problems, and his resilience has been a grounding force for me over the years.

Withheld

September 13, 2014

I was on swim team with brad and knew him to be a kind and generous person. He was always quick to say hello and make friends immediately. He will be missed. Please accept my condolences.

Curtis Bartholomew

September 12, 2014

I had the pleasure of living on the third floor of Taylor Tower my freshman year at OSU with Brad. He was such an amazing man. He was always there to listen, help, or visit. The world is truly a better place because of him. Rest peacefully, Brad.

Riki Wilhelm

September 12, 2014

WHha a wonderful service it was today to celebrate you. I feel so lucky to have known you and to have spent time with you where you lived. I know you are no longer in pain and that you are moving all about dancing, singing, running, swimming. I'm just sad to think I will never be able to visit with you and talk, laugh, watch our Steelers play again. I was able to meet (and hug) the wonderful people who brought you into the world and gave you to us. I know you are with me in spirit and because of your life and its affect on mine I know I'm a better person. I will never forget you. Until we meet again, sweet friend.

Traci Capparuccini

September 12, 2014

The world is a brighter place because of Brad. His determination and optimism is inspiring. I have many fond memories of Boy Scouts with Brad. May he be running free.

Don Paullo

September 12, 2014

While I am sad at the loss of my friend, I'm comforted by the fact that Brad is now in heaven with his Lord and Savior, free of any pain and any suffering. You will be missed my friend.

Rich Miles

September 11, 2014

Friends Forever

Carrie Kochensparger

September 11, 2014

May you run with the angels my friend and be at peace.

Michael Turner

September 11, 2014

Brad and I attended Otterbein together. I will always remember his funny remarks and positive attitude. I can still see his smile. I saw a striking butterfly on the morning I heard of his passing. Those mean a beautiful beginning to me which I know he is enjoying.

September 11, 2014

I am so sorry for your loss, Brad was an amazing person who always helped you keep positive thoughts no matter the situation. I enjoyed his company he was always able to make you smile. I am honored to of known him I wish I could of met him under better circumstances, however non the less I am so thankful I was privileged to of known him. I will never forget that smile and his love of laughter.

Rest In Peace Brad!
Love always "one of your angels"

Krista Hazlett

September 11, 2014

I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family. I'm so very honored to have known Brad. I wish it could of been under different circumstances.God bless you! May he RIP!
Lots of love from one of" his angels!"

Melissa Huffer

September 11, 2014

You might not remember me from my family's living in annehurst but my son Jeff died in 2003 so I do know how your heart is aching. Mat Gid grant you the peace and understanding he so readily gives during the valleys in you lives
Phyllis Allen

September 11, 2014

We were so sorry to hear Brad's passing. May God give your family strength.

Bill and Marian Cooper

September 11, 2014

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Eldridge, Brad's Family & Friends,

I am so sorry to learn of Brad's passing. I fondly remember our days as track and cross country teammates. I will never forget the strength he displayed then, and later in his life. May peace and comfort find you at this difficult time.

With Deepest Sympathy,
Luke Bradley

Luke Bradley

September 11, 2014

I'm so happy to have met you and been touched by your kindness and am heavily saddened by your passing. You will be missed by so many. My sympathies and condolences to the Eldridge family and friends. Brad endured so much and gave us even more back. Your soul has made Heaven a better place like it did here on earth RIP friend.

Tammy McCandlish

September 11, 2014

From all of the Brandon family we will miss you and know you are at peace. No words can say how you touched and gave to so many people! We will miss you Brad!

Coach, Mrs. Coach, Damien & Doug Brandon

September 11, 2014

I was a classmate of Brad's. Our senior year, he and I had every class together. This short Indian girl and tall, blonde Brad would walk from class to class together - I am sure we were a funny sight. Brad was smart, talented, and a kind friend to all who crossed his path. Most of all, he was courageous in the way he faced life challenges. Thinking of his family and sending thoughts and prayers to all of you.

Bella Mehta

September 11, 2014

Dear Eldridge Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Brad as such a kind, caring, and inspirational person. My deepest sympathy to you all.

Amy Alden Grube

September 11, 2014

Becky & Denny-I am very sorry for your loss and to all the people who knew Brad.He was every bit of the best of the human spirit .In high school he was my friend my captain on 3 different sports and always did everything he could to make me better at each.

Burke Hill

September 11, 2014

I will miss The Boy Across The Street. Rest well, my dear friend. We will see you again.

Alicia Fogal

September 11, 2014

My prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Roger Harris

September 11, 2014

Brad was courageous. He was never a victim of what life served him. He was an educator of how to life a life with meaning. And an example of how to pass along words to help others live a good life. After struggling to accept how little I had this wonderful man in my life which was not long enough. I have simply come to the conclusion Brad had a unique place in people's lives. I for one am so grateful to know his place in mine was a blessing.

Jennifer Lyon-Weisman

September 11, 2014

I am so saddened to hear of Brad's passing. He was a wonderful and compassionate person. He was simply the best person I ever knew. No one comes close. I miss you, Brad. <3

Tracy Dallmeyer

September 11, 2014

Although Brad and I never met in person, I was honored to know him. He radiated happiness which is a gift. My memories of Brad will always be deeply cherished.

James Shortland

September 11, 2014

Becky & Denny - my deepest sympathy. Brad was a wonderful young man, I know you were very proud of him. He had wonderful examples of how to live in the two of you. God bless you all.

Mel Heckman

September 10, 2014

Rest in peace Brad. You were one of the good ones.

Nathan Brown

September 10, 2014

I was honored to have Brad as one of my best friends when we were young and then to have reunited with him when we were students at Otterbein. We then kept in touch on Facebook. Brad will always have a very special place in my heart and my thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful family.

Matthew Hanson

September 10, 2014

Prayers and heartfelt wishes.

Laura Gerber Yarnell

September 10, 2014

Denny & Becky,
Brad was one of those amazing people who are endeared the moment you meet! My prayers are with you and your family.

Sandy Flowers

September 10, 2014

Thank you Mr. And Mrs. Eldridge for raising such an amazing man. He was such an inspiration and taught so much to so many. I'm thankful to be counted among his friends.

Tracie Bober

September 10, 2014

My condolences to the Eldridge family. Brad was one of my most memorable students - a true scholar, athlete, and gentleman with a great sense of humor.

Sandy Walden Priwer

September 10, 2014

My condolences to the Eldridge family.

Michelle Derenburger

September 10, 2014

Dear Eldridge family,
Brad was an amazing man and so full of life. I feel very fortunate to have known him and know he will be watching over us all.
My deepest sympathy and prayers are with the family,

Lori Nickel

September 10, 2014

I am so sorry for your loss.....I was a classmate of Brads....graduated with him In 1990. Brad was such a great guy. He was a fighter. Prayers to you during this time of mourning....

Sara Yoder

September 10, 2014

My thoughts & prayers are with the Eldridge family. Brad may you rest in peace!

Kim Carey

September 10, 2014

I'm happy to have known Brad since college and wonder at all the lives he touched. He was a joy and an inspiration to us all. May God bless you at this difficult time...

Marsha Harsh

September 10, 2014

B.E. Better
B.E. Inspirational
B-Rad

I love you Brad Eldridge

Nancy Floyd

September 10, 2014

I remember Brad through the eyes of my daughter Jennifer Locher DePaul as they grew up in Annehurst. The last time I saw Brad he was running in a WSHS Track meet. Surely the angels wings have carried him to Paradise where he is running again. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Bonnie Locher

September 10, 2014

I am sorry for your loss he was a good friend and a wonderful man he will be missed, he has my Girlfriend up there with him I lost her 2 months ago,like I said he will be missed and I wish I could get up there for everything.

May God be with you and less you all.

Michael Pritsel

September 10, 2014

My most heartfelt condolences to all of Brad's family. He was such an incredible, caring person and touched so many peoples lives. He will be missed.

Nancy Clark

September 10, 2014

Dear Eldridge family,

May God be with you during this time of sadness. Brad was a wonderful man and I will always remember his friendship.

God Bless.

Traci Ryan

September 10, 2014

Dan and Marshal Molloy

September 10, 2014

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