Michael Carl Bridges

.Michael C. Bridges, 74, passed away March 7, 2016, at home with his family by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 12, 1941 to Wilbur and Mary (Ende) Bridges in Rock Island, Illinois, Michael graduated from Rock Island High School in 1959. He then moved on to Black Hawk College in the Quad Cities and finished his education at Western Illinois University. After that Michael served in the Army. After his military service, Michael met and soon married Elizabeth Richardson on July 16, 1965 in Rock Island. The two celebrated their 40th anniversary by renewing their vows in 2005. Michael started his career at International Harvester. He later moved on to Xerox, then Midwest Visual, eventually being employed and retiring from Rockford Blacktop. He was a proud member of Local 32. He had a passion for sports his whole life, especially for baseball and softball, which he continued to play until 2014.

Survivors include his sons Troy (Anne) Bridges of Marcellus, MI, Tim (Carla) Bridges of Durand, IL, grandchildren, Joshua (Melanie) Bridges of Paw Paw, MI, Brandi (Jayson) Zoll, of Niles, MI, Paige Bridges, of Rockton, IL, Jim Bridges of Durand, IL, and Jeff Bridges, of Marcellus, MI. His two favorite little people were his great grandchildren, Zoey and Easton Bridges. Michael was proceeded in death by his wife Elizabeth (Richardson) Bridges, his parents, and great granddaughter Reese Bridges. A very special thank you to Hospice of Southwest Michigan, Brenda Priest, and Erika Eggleston.

A Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home in Machesney Park, Illinois on Saturday, March 26 from 10 am-12 pm. A Private burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, monetary donations may be sent to Hospice of Southwest Michigan, The American Cancer Society or The Alzheimer Association.