With heavy hearts and great sadness we announce the death of Michael Raymond Bridgeman on December 20, 2020. He passed quietly in his sleep. Mike was born on St. Brendan’s Island, Newfoundland on August 12, 1923, son to William and Mary Anne, brother to Jack, Martin, Bernard, Alice, Margaret (all predeceased). Beloved husband of 64 years to Mary. Dear father to Linda (Glen), Eileen (Chris), Doreen, Michael (Fawn), Bill (Fiona) and John (Catherine). Loved by his grandchildren Chris (Angela), Justin (Courtney), Ashley, Liam, Delaney, Sadie, Jack, Billy, Kaitlyn and Jacob, as well as great grandchildren Felicity, Isabelle, Madison, Charlotte and Peter. He was a much loved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Mike grew up building and sailing schooners to fish cod and salmon on the Grand Banks and the Labrador, joining the crew when just 12 years old. He was very proud of his time at the splitting table. Like many a Newfoundlander before and since, he saw opportunity and a future for his family in Toronto, moving there in the 50s. After a few years in Scarborough, Mike and Mary moved to Pickering in 1967. Being the father of three boys, he was always happy to help with coaching duties in both WestShore and Holy Redeemer leagues, mostly hockey but baseball too. A devoutly religious man, he was very active in the Holy Redeemer church community, where he became involved in the Manresa Retreat House, captaining retreats for over 40 years. Mike was an active member with the Knights of Columbus, a charter member of the Holy Redeemer Council for over 60 yrs. Mike was also a proud member of Ironworkers Local 721, and only when his health stopped him did he cease marching with them in the Labour Day parade, some 50 years.
https://www.arbormemorial.ca/mceachnie/obituaries/michael-raymond-bridgeman/59579