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BORN
1941
DIED
2018
Gary Bridell Obituary
Gary E. "Coach" Bridell, 76, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2018, in his home in Sandestin, Miramar Beach Florida, surrounded by his loved ones.
Gary was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and a long-time teacher and coach at O'Fallon Township High School. He was a shining example of a life well lived, with a great love for his family, friends, fishing and commitment to student-athletes as coach, mentor and friend.
Gary was born December 7, 1941, in St. Louis, MO, and attended Normandy High School where he excelled in football and basketball. Gary went on to Southeast Missouri State University where he played football and graduated with a Masters degree in Business. After graduation, he became a teacher and accomplished football coach. On April 6, 2002, Gary was inducted into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Gary was preceded in death by brother, Bill Bridell, Father, John Bridell and Mother, Dorothy Bridell.
Gary Bridell is survived by his wife, Sharon Love; first wife, Sharon Bridell and their three children; daughter, Kelli (Deron) Daenzer; son, Craig (Jill) Bridell; daughter, Niki (Tom) Hollerich; step daughter, Betsy (Mike) Clark; grandchildren, Paige, Autumn, Skylar, Carson, Claire, Benett, Tanner, Dylan, and John; sister, Joyce Herman; and brother, Mark Bridell.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in memory of Gary Bridell to the National ALS Association, 1275 K Street NW, Suite 250, Washington DC 20005 or the Florida ALS Association Chapter 3242, Parkside Center Circle, Tampa FL 33619-0907.
Gary will be greatly missed by all who knew him and revered for his dedication to family, friends and for setting a high standard to which we all aspire.
Service: A Celebration of Life will be held August 4th in Sandestin, Miramar Beach Florida, the time and location is to be announced at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary Bridell
Sponsored by Belleville News-Democrat.
Matt Fleming
September 20, 2023
Coach Bridell was a great influence.
He was a great coach and leader.
Matt Fleming
Class 1983 OTHS
Karl Marlinghaus
July 12, 2018
I am not sure how to express to Coach Bridell's family how much he meant to me and how sad I am in hearing of his passing. I had the honor of playing for Coach at OTHS from 1980 to 1982. I will say that every time I pick up a football, I think back to that 8 and 1 season we had in 1982 and can only smile. I know it was only a small part of his life, but it was a big part of mine. He taught me so much that I still use today. Rest in peace Coach.
Karl Marlinghaus (OTHS Class of 1983)
Wayne Brasler
July 12, 2018
I went to Normandy HIgh School with Gary. He was an outstanding athlete and also involved deeply in school activities. A football star, he was co-captain. Beyond being an athletic talent Gary was a truly generous individual. He was friendly to everyone and while everyone was impressed with him he never was impressed by himself.
July 12, 2018
Rest in Peace my friend. Thanks for the opportunity to searve as your assistant coach in football. Prayers for the family.
Lee and Jeff Hensley
July 12, 2018
What a beautiful tribute and a blessing to live a well lived life. Our deepest sympathy for your loss as well as the rest of your extended family.
Sincerely
Lee and Jeff
Nancy Morgan ( Thompson)
July 12, 2018
Mrs. Bridell and Family, I was not a student of Gary's, but I however was a student of Mrs. Bridell. My Step brother Tony (Anthony) Ballard played football while Gary coached at O'Fallon. I'm sending prayers and hugs to you at this very difficult time. God Bless. I am also send my condolences.
Brian Walsh
July 12, 2018
Sorry to see the news of Coach Bridell's passing. My condolences to your family during this time.
Marti Routh
July 12, 2018
We are sorry for the loss of Coach Bridell. Praying all the cherished memories will bring you comfort and joy! Wes, Marti, Mike, Tim Routh
July 12, 2018
Coach Bridell was a great guy. Sorry for your loss. (77 grad)
Marceil Flatt
July 11, 2018
To Gary's family and our Friend Sharon Anderton Love from your friends in the Class of 1968. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
July 11, 2018
To the family, I'm so sorry for the loss of your love one, may the loving support of your family, friends and prayers sustain you through this very difficult time. Isaiah 57:15
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