David L Bridges

Concrete Avocados: The Story of David L. Bridges Born from the southern roots of Des Ark, Arkansas, there lived a man named David L. Bridges. Born in 1943, Dave's life was shaped by the grit and craftsmanship of his own father, David Bridges, as well as the traditional values and honesty of his mother, Merle Bridges. He became a master carpenter and builder. He built not just homes and structures, but a reputation for honesty and craftsmanship that lasted a lifetime. He was a never-ending terror to his older sister Lynetta, and an idol to his younger sister Deborah. Dave's adventure started in Des Ark, but his life's journey took him around the world. Some of the happiest times of his youth were spent in Oak Ridge, Oregon. His high school days were spent in Corvallis, Oregon. His military service took him to Vietnam from November 1966 to June 1968, where he was subjected to Agent Orange. He also spent time in West Virginia and Alaska while in the military. After his military service, Dave spent time in Bend and Scio, Oregon, before he settled in Albany, Oregon, at his forever home. Dave's journey was enhanced by love and family. His first wife, Nola Lock, shared the early chapters of his story. Together they raised their son, Kyle Bridges, passing on the values of hard work, good humor, and kindness. Later he found his soulmate and best friend in Charlotte Bridges, whose laughter and companionship brought him true happiness. Charlotte brought to Dave even more family to enjoy with her children David, Tami, and Michaelle. Known for his storytelling, Dave could turn any moment into an earful. His jokes and stories were legendary, bringing smiles and guffaws to any friendly ear that would listen. Friends and family will always remember the avocados. Dave would passionately learn and embrace things that fascinated him. He was quick to learn anything and everything about many topics. He dabbled in numerous hobbies from earthworm farming to fine lawn care, from singing classic oldies with his guitar to hunting and fishing. As we honor Dave's memory, we celebrate a life built on strong foundations of family, friendship, and laughter. His story endures in every joke retold, every structure that stands, and every heart he touched. Dave and Charlotte loved spending time with family and friends including his son Kyle (husband Jeffery); sister Debbie (husband Gary); stepson David; stepdaughters Tami (husband Eric) and Michaelle and her daughter Miranda (husband Brett) and their two kids Milea and Brazen; nephew Dustin (wife Anna) and their daughters, Hailee & Amelia; lifelong friends Sherry and Turtle; niece Jann; nephew Terry and his son Jason; and the McDonald's Coffee Crew. The crew has gotten smaller over the years, but still with us are Sherry, Alice and Mike, Deb and Ron, and Charlotte's brother John. A celebration of Dave's life will be held Friday October 24th at 2:00pm at Aasum-Dufour Funeral Home, 805 Ellsworth St. SW Albany, Or 97321. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David L Bridges, please visit our floral store.