On July 18, we lost a loving husband, father and friend, Eldridge E. Bravo, Jr. A Tampa native, and eighth generation Floridian, he was born in Tampa in 1938, and was the only child of Eldridge and Beatrice Bravo. The family lived in Seminole Heights and he was a graduate of Hillsborough High School and member of the Class of 1956. While attending Florida State University he lettered in Gymnastics, competing in the rings and pommel horse. His career began as assistant manager of Publix in Tampa. In 1968, Eldridge joined Xerox Corp where he excelled in sales and earned many promotions in management and executive leadership positions before venturing out as co-owner of Dollar-Rent-A-Car Systems in 1979. After many successful years of building the organization with his lifelong friend and partner George Knutsson they sold the company to Chrysler Corporation in 1991. Afterward he formed, owned and operated A1 Vending Services until his passing. During his life he was also a successful entrepreneur. He had a keen interest in music and published the original music of artists including Celine Dion, Paul Rodgers, 38 Special, Johnnie Van Zandt, The J. Geils Band, and Downes & Price among many others. Always an avid sports enthusiast he enjoyed golf, boating, fishing, scuba diving, history and genealogy. His dear friends, family and all who knew him for his quit wit, kind heart and infectious smile dearly loved him. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of twelve years Barbara, son Eldridge Bravo III, daughter Leslie Fowler, her husband Chip Fowler, and grandchildren; Samantha and Nicole Fowler, Abigail and Noah Bravo. The family will host a Celebration of Life Gathering to honor him at The Civitan Beach Club 18604 Gulf Blvd. Indian Shores, FL 33785 on July 24th from 5pm to 9pm. Please contact Leslie Fowler with questions 727-458-8890. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to The American Heart Association.
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