Dr. Spencer Moody Bridger

February 19, 1934 to January 19, 2019

Obituary

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Spencer Bridger on January 19, 2019 at Kenny’s Pond Retirement Residence in St John’s. Predeceased by his beloved wife of almost 60 years Monica Bridger (nee Walters), sons Geoffrey and Jason, sister Annetta Goodyear, brother Sydney, and parents Nelson and Hilda Bridger.

Leaving with loving memories are his daughters Leslie and Tracey, son-in-law Robert Wellon, cherished grandsons Spencer and Jack Wellon, sisters Grace Cooper and Ruby Blackmore, brothers Wilson, Bruce, and Ted Bridger, and a large circle of friends.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Kenny’s Pond Retirement Residence, including nurse Pam Molloy and Dr. Percy Crocker for their loving care of Dad. Your kindness and compassion shown to our family will never be forgotten.

Spencer was a remarkable individual with a beautiful soul. Born in Campbellton, Spencer spent most of his childhood in Buchans. He attended Dalhousie Medical School and worked for several years as a general practitioner.  He then went to McGill to do a residency in radiology and in 1970 started work as a pediatric radiologist at the Janeway Child Health Centre, where he stayed until his retirement at the age of 72. Spencer was passionate about his work and loved his colleagues.  He also enjoyed teaching and spent much of his career with a student sitting next to him.  He was honoured when they named a radiology teaching award after him.

Two of the people Spencer treasured most were his grandsons, Spencer and Jack, whom he adored. He was so proud of their achievements and loved sharing memories with them and hearing about their activities.

Spencer was a history buff and avid reader. He enjoyed studying world religions and philosophy and fancied himself to be an amateur philosopher.  One of his favourite pastimes was spending time with his friends, including Margaret and Peter Crosbie, the Hopkins family, his coffee buddies, and his new friends at Kenny’s Pond, where he loved to sing, dance, play trivia, and socialize.

Spencer was extraordinary in so many ways.  An exceptional role model, he showed us how to be resilient and enjoy each day no matter what life brings you.   We’ll miss him dearly.

We make a living by what we get;
we make a life by what we give

Winston Churchill

Cremation has taken place.

Visitation will be held at Carnell’s Funeral home, 329 Freshwater Road from 2-4pm and 7-9pm on Wednesday, January 23, 2019. A funeral service and celebration of Spencer’s life will be held at the Anglican Cathedral on Thursday, January 24, 2019 at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Spencer’s memory may be made to the Janeway Children’s Hospital Foundation.  Spend time with your loved ones and be kind to one another.  Spencer would have wanted that too.

Schedule

Visitations

2-4 p.m. on January 23, 2019

7-9 p.m. on January 23, 2019

Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map


funeral

2:00pm, Thursday January 24th

Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Church Street, St. John's


Condolences

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Dear Tracey,
So sorry to hear of your father’s passing. My thoughts are with you and yours.

Dear Tracy,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father.. I have some wonderful memories of him from when we used to study at your house in first year, and when I did an elective in radiology in clerkship. He was a wonderful physician and wonderful man. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Karen

.January 10 th, 1977…As a 20 year old, starting a new career as a X-ray Technologist at the Janeway, I had no idea what to expect, or what was expected of me. I was introduced to staff, and one of 2 Radiologists…that would be Dr. Bridger. A comforting smile and Hello, got me through that first day and 35 years later, I still treasure that first moment. So many wonderful, kind , thoughtful monemts with this treasured man throughout those years as the ” Janeway family ” . We were a family he treasured. But, his true pride was his family beyond those hospital walls. RIP, sweet man. You were , and always will be, a treasure I have been graced to know in my life.

My sincere condolences to the family on the passing of your Father. Altough I did not work at Janeway,I knew Dr Bridger through my work as Clinlcal Instructor with the Medical Radiography training program.
He was such a wonderful man,kind and funny and he always went out of his way to make students feel accepted and part of the team.
He was a true gentleman and the world needs more like him. He will be missed.

Cathy Rossiter-Flight
Grace Hospital and HSC

Tracey, Bob, Spencer and Jack,

We are thinking of you all today and sending our love. Spence was a caring, generous, witty and intelligent gentleman whom we feel blessed to have known.
He and Monica welcomed me into their home while I completed university at Memorial and they made me feel like family. I will never forget his warm and welcoming smile. In the many conversations I had with him it was very easy to see how much he cared for and loved his family.
Hold onto the many wonderful memories you have, they are yours forever.

Nicole, Ed and Ryan Wight
Deer Lake, NL

Tracey and Family
Such a sad day for all of us who had the privilege to know and work with your Dad.He was truly loved for his kindness,his wonderful smile and making everyone feel special .Remembered always your name and where in the hospital you worked.
He would always come in thru the ER every morning ,I am sure he was the first in the building.Rain or snow he was there.So happy to have known him.

Leslie, Tracey,, Bob,, Spencer,& Jack,
Our sincere condolences for the loss of your father and grandfather.
Uncle Spence was a wonderful, caring man who was loved by many but especially by those of us who were blessed to be family! He had a big heart that always was open to anyone who needed him. Whether it be councel, a place to stay, or just a kind word! I will miss him but know he is in heaven with Aunt Monica and all those who have gone before, He will never be forgotten and will remain in our hearts!

Love and Prayers
Bev (Cooper) & Paul Warren

To my dear friend Tracey and family,
I was saddened to hear about the loss of your dad, Dr. Bridger. It seems like just yesterday that, while studying during medical school at your house, you dad would know just the right time to come down the stairs at some god awful hour, and bring the best coffee and treats ever! We would ask what coffee he used and we were always told it was Spence’s special blend! I secretly think that his wonderful coffee and treats were half the reason we all graduated from medical school! Dr. Bridger was a friendly face and an expert pediatric radiologist . He always welcomed us medical students with a smile and unending patience and teaching. Unlike any other.
Dr. Bridger will be missed. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts at this difficult time.
My sincerest condolences.

Tracey, Leslie and family
Our sincerest condolences regarding the passing of your father. Tracey, I have so many memories of us as young girls, times we spent together, and recollections of your dad. He was no doubt a wonderful role model in many ways and so many of those qualities have been internalized and passed on. Hold on to each one.
Our thoughts are with you.
Karen (Howell) & Michael Woolfrey

Leslie and Tracey.
Your parents represented more to us than you’ll ever know. Our sincere condolences.
Ruby and Bill.

Thinking of you and your family Leslie. Take good care.

Tracey, Leslie, Bob, Spencer and Jack,
So sorry for your loss.

Spence was an exceptional human being. He greeted every person he met with a ready smile, warmth, great kindness and respect. He radiated these qualities to such a degree that they were physically permeable when in his presence. Dr. Bridger was a man suited perfectly for the career that he chose in life and a dedicated friend, father and husband.
His legacy continues in his children and grandchildren who share his talents, intellect and wonderful personality. He will never be forgotten…Russ , Michele, Jagger and Breck

We had the privilege of knowing Spence for many years here in Norris Arm. He was a true gentleman and such a kind hearted soul. Always thoughtful always caring. It was with great sadness we heard of his passing. Please accept our sincere condolences.

Tracey and Leslie, it is with profound sadness that I heard of your Dad,s passing. He started the Medical clinic in GFW where I Practiced after he went off to do his residency and We had been friends ever since. We both had a cottage in Sandy Point and visited back and forth. He was a true gentleman and friend and has passed down a great legacy. Please accept our sincere sympathy.
Ivan and Louise Woolfrey

Tracey, Carolyn and I were sorry to hear of your father’s passing. You, and your family, have our sincere sympathy.

Love and hugs to you Leslie at this difficult time.

We were fortunate to have known such a good and kind man.
Our deepest sympathies to all the family

Saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Bridger. I remember him well from my Janeway days where he was a quiet, pleasant, gentle man, always eager to share his expertise with everyone. A wonderful teacher. A most respected person. May he rest in peace.

Our deepest condolences to all of Spencer’s family. He was a great mentor for me as a radiologist. I have fond memories of the daily read of the x-rays as a medical student and resident. More recently, I was extremely grateful for how he welcomed my father on his arrival in Kenny’s Pond and I enjoyed our many chats while he was making his “rounds” around the home. We are so sorry that we will not be in St. John’s for the service. God Bless.

Deepest condolences on your loss. Dr. Bridger is thought of fondly as a consummate gentleman, and dear friend of the family. Best Wishes – our thoughts are with you at this time.

I was very saddened to learn of Dr. Bridger’s passing. A beautiful person, loved to sing and very appreciative of time spent with the Kenny’s Pond Choir. He loved to go on choir outings to various homes around the city. Enjoyed meeting people “he hadn’t seen in years”. My deepest condolences to Leslie & family. It was an honour to have known him. He’ll be missed dearly. God bless you all.

Lesley, Tracey, Robert & Extended Family:
Our most heartfelt condolences to you & your family. May the love & comfort of family & friends comfort you during these difficult days. We feel fortunate to have known Dr. Bridger, this much loved, respected & gentle man.

Tracey and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. I worked in Radiology at the Janeway in 1975 when I started my career. I knew and worked with Dr Bridger for two years. He was always so approachable and was always open to help us with worried parents and doctor offices awaiting reports. He was such a caring person. One time my two year old daughter had X-rays because she could’t bear weight on her leg. For days after he would be sure to ask me how she was doing. When I met him outside be it at Coctco or other places he made time to ask how I was doing after my breast cancer. Our loss is heaven’s gain. Warm hugs my friend.

Tracey, Leslie, my heart fell when I received the new from Dad. I always had such a warm place in my heart for your mom and dad. Visits to your house always brought such joy, from playing in the garden to seeing the doll house to such great conversation in later years. Spence was always an inspiration to me, someone who represented the possibilities of achievement but was also so rooted in appreciation for everything around him. I am very happy that we had the opportunity to visit in November and will cherish memories of our families for ever.

Catherine and I are thinking of you all.

Byron

My Condolences to the all the Bridger family. RIP Spencer.I knew him from my teenage years living in Buchans. He sure was a handsome man.

My Condolences to the all the Bridger family. RIP Spencer.

Leslie and Tracey, so sorry to hear of Dad’s Passing,I have a lot of fond memories of this wonderful man as a kid when we all lived at Janeway Apts.Your Dad watched as I grew up and years later we had the occasion to be invited to a party on The Culdesac where your dad lived,and took the time to drop over and say Hello after all these years,and introduce my oldest daughter,Kerri who was studying Radiology at the time, and he told me he knew exactly who she was and had been keeping an eye on her progress.
I thought that was the most kind and wonderful thing any person could do. your dad always made people feel good.

To Spencer’s family. I was so sorry to read of
Spencer’s passing. It is so hard to say farewell to a dearly love one but his spirit will alway be with you to bring you peace and comfort. I have not seen him for many years, not since I was a teenager in Buchans. Then I was a good friend of Annetta and spent a lot of time at the Bridger home. Spencer was so handsome how could I not have a crush on him. I remember the family quite well. Our house in Buchans had another family living in the other end and at one time the Bridger family lived there. My sincere condolences to the family. God bless you all.

I’m so very sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Bridger. He was such a kind, caring man who always stopped to chat, even outside the hospital, if I happened to meet him out grocery shopping or some such thing.
He was well respected in his field as well as in his life. Thinking of you as you mourn the loss of your wonderful dad and granddad.

II worked with this kind gentleman at the Janeway so sorry for your loss a man of his word honest and caring will be missed
Donna Harding

Leslie, Tracey and family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you today as we mourn together the loss of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. he was also a wonderful brother. Spencer in spite of what was happening in his own life, was concerned about how we were doing and wanted to know about the family. and our conversation always ended with..’love you all’.
When he left home to attend Dalhousie we were all concerned about him being so far away from home. then at Christmas he came home to proudly show us the frog he had dissected and we knew he was doing what he was called to do and would make a wonderful Doctor. which he was!

He will be sadly missed and never forgotten by all who all who knew and loved him. today he has joined the family members gone before him in Heaven.
Love and prayers to all

Grace & Cecil

My grandparents live in Kenny’s Pond and my 9 year old daughter loved to go over and have chats with Dr. Bridger in the dining room. He was such a kind and lovely man. So sorry for your loss.

Tracy and family,

Your Dad was an amazing man who was loved and respected by all who knew him. His cheery good morning and daily chats were the highlight of the end of my many night shifts in the ED. He’d always stop by the ED early every morning to say hello and pick up the films from the night before. A was truly a gentle man who left a legacy of love and respect . Thinking of you all at this time.

Tracy, Bob and family,
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Bridger. We are thinking of you and sending love.

Brett and Nicky Williams

Very saddened to hear of passage of Dr. Bridget, Spence to higher planes to join his wife and spend the rest of the time in higher planes together. A very fine, caring gentleman. Honoured to have met him and call him a friend. We pray his soul rests in eternal peace and family get the strength to bear the loss. Surya, Hasu, Archna – The Shah family

Leslie,Tracey and Family please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your dad. He was such a gentle and kind soul… loved by all. I remember him from the early sixties when he practised in CNH Grand Falls and then for the many years at the JCH where my late husband Roy and I had so much respect for him.
Treasure your memories they will give you peace.
Sincerely Ivy Crowley-Saint and Toby Saint.

Leslie and Tracey, we are very saddened to learn of Spence’s passing. I will always have fond memories of our family visits to Bally Haly Pl.
Spence and Monica were always gracious hosts and entertainers. Spence’s role as a physician inspired my journey into Medicine. He was spoken of with reverence at the Janeway for his knowledge, kindness, and great rapport with staff and patients alike. I feel fortunate my children had the opportunity to meet him while he was in good health.

Our entire family are thinking of you at this difficult time.
Chris (Jill, Alex, Ben, Michael)
Jennifer (Ray)
Bob

To Tracey,Leslie and Family, We were so sad to hear of your Dad’s death. Over the years we have really appreciated his thoughtfulness and great kindness.He was very special. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Gerry and Bill Sprague

To Spencer’s family:
I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Spencer’s passing and send my condolences to all of you. In the days of my youth in Buchans I spent a lot of time in the Bridger home with Annetta and learned much about her older brother. If we entered the house while he was studying, we knew we had to creep inside and whisper so as not to disturb him, not an easy task for teenage girls. He was determined to fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor and the whole town was proud of him when he did. The last time I spoke with him was at Monica’s wake and we chatted about these bygone days. I am truly sorry that we are now away and cannot express our condolences in person, but do know that Len and I are thinking of you and praying that strength will be yours as you go through this time of grief so soon after the passing of Monica. These words of William Shakespeare can be used to describe Spencer: His life was gentle and the elements so mixed in him that Nature might stand up and say “THIS WAS A MAN.” May God’s love surround you and grant you strength and courage to carry on as Spencer would have wished you to do.

Tracey,Leslie and family
My very deepest condolences on your tremendous loss. Dr. Bridger was one of the kindest, most gentle, and professional people to ever grace the halls of the Janeway. He had a calming presence and always a kind word for everyone. We were blessed to have him on staff.
You are in my thoughts and Prather seems.
Mary Baker

To Spencer’s family. I am so sorry to hear that you have lost such a special person. He became friends with us at Tim Horton’s in the group. I was very happy when he did us the honor of speaking at my late husbands funeral service. Spencer was truly one of the worlds real gentleman and he will be missed. He was kind and caring and I looked forward to the days he came to coffee. I am so sorry that I will not be in St John’s for his service

So sorry to hear of Spencer’s passing,thinking of you, all at this time! Please accept our sincere condolences!
Our prayers are with you, all! God Bless!
The Hillier Family (Of Aunt Maggie and Uncle Sam)
Campbellton (, Morgan, Louise, Eva and Elaine and spouses)

Dear Leslie, Tracey and family,
We’re so so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He was such a lovely man with a spirit for life that we can only hope to achieve. Our love and support are with you all!
Michelle and Connie xoxo

Tracey, Leslie and family,
I am deeply saddened to hear the loss of Dr. Bridger. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Chitra Pushpanathan.

To Lesley, Tracey and Bob, Jack and Spencer, and family. Spence was one of the warmest and most caring people we have had the pleasure of knowing. Some people are so special they become part of us, in that way he will live on forever. With love and remembrance…John and Ruby Wellon

Tracy and family,

I’m so very sorry on the loss of your dad, cherish your precious memories and know he will always be with you in your heart. It is a very hollow feeling when you lose a parent or any loved one, with time the pain will ease but the ache will never go away. ❤️

To all the family, We were very sad to hear of the passing of your loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time.

Leslie and Tracy, I’m so very sorry to read today that your Dad has passed away, so soon after your Mom’s passing. You must be devastated. I met your Dad only a few times, in the late 70’s, when I was one of your Mom’s students, and you were beautiful little girls. Your Mom was so very proud of your Dad and her Family. Your Mom and Dad are now reunited in heaven, along with your two precious brothers. My sincere condolences to both of you and your family at this very sad time.

So sorry to hear of Spencers passing and so soon after Monica..our deepest condolences to Leslie Tracey and family .

To Leslie, Tracy and Bob, Jack and Spencer, and family,
How devastating to have lost both Monica and Spence within a few months. They have left us a legacy of kindness, strength in adversity, and a love of life. As a friend of many years, I treasure my memories, as you do, which I hope will bring you comfort.

Tracey, Bob, Spencer, Jack & Family,
So sorry to hear of Dr. Bridger’s passing, especially so soon after your dear mother & grandmother’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this time.

My deepest condolences on the passing of Dr.Bridger.
He was a great man that I had great respect for.
I will always cherish those morning chats over coffee.
God Bless…..Bert

Mrs. Bridger, Leslie, Tracey, Bob & Extended Family.
I am very saddened to hear of the passing of such a great man. I feel truly blessed to have met and spend time with Spence while working at Kenny’s Pond.It was always a delight to see him first thing every morning as he greeted me with a “Good Morning and a Smile”.May he Rest in Peace.
Wishing you all peace to bring comfort,courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.

Leslie, Tracy, Bob and Family,

Our sincere condolences on the passing of your father and the boys grandfather. We are incredibly sorry for your loss and wish you strength during this time and comfort in the memories you have for life of all the special moments spent with him.

The Bridger family
I was saddened to hear of Dr. Bridger’s death. He was a kind and gentle man; a gentleman. I worked with him for many years when I was Oncology nurse coordinator at the JCHC. And he was always available to help or answer questions. Take comfort in the wonderful memories you have of him.
Jan Crocker
Halifax

Bob and Family;
My sincere condolences on hearing of your father in law’s passing. I’m so sorry for your loss. May your family and friends bring comfort to you at this difficult time.

Tracey, Bob and family;

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Sincerest condolences from my family to yours.

Tracey, Bob and family,
We were saddened to hear of your father’s passing this past weekend. We hope that the comfort of family and friends see you through this difficult time and that lots of wonderful memories lift you.
My condolences, Carolyn Emerson

Tracey, Bob and family,
I am sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Keep the happy memories close and take comfort in the love and support of family and friends. Those loved are never lost.
Take care

Tracey, Bob & Family,
We send our sincere condolences on the passing of your Father…
May his special memories bring you peace comfort & strengtht at this difficult time.

Ian & Maura

Leslie, Tracy, Bob and kids. I am so sad to hear of Spence’s passing. I have so many fond memories of him over the years. He was a remarkable man, the kindest of souls. My thoughts are with you all at this time.

Dr. Bridger was a role model for us all in every possible way: how to be a good doctor, how to be a good teacher, how to be a good parent, how to be a good partner, how to be a good human. He was smart and sensible, kind and loving, hard-working and determined. I loved him. We all did. I strive to be like him. His presence on the earth will be greatly missed and never forgotten.