Thursday, October 1, 2026
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Barton Dean Bridges, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who left us on March 10, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on Oct. 7, 1953, in Olympia, Washington, Bart lived a life marked by kindness, love, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Bart was a devoted family man who dedicated himself to the well-being of his loved ones. He is survived by his cherished wife, Wilkister (Willy) Bridges; his sons Kevin Bridges and Kennedy Onyoni, Tom Onyiego, Alfayo Omwega; his brotherhood of three, Harold, Bob, and Steve; sisters Carol, Peg, and Linda; along with nephews and Nieces and 47 in all of the family Harold and Alice family, along with five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Bart was a devoted, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather to many where he played a strong and loving role in his grandchildren’s lives, especially close to Denise and GG whom he loved dearly.
He was preceded in death by his dear son, Rodger Bridges, who remains in the hearts of those who loved him.
Throughout his career, Bart served the community with dedication, working at St. Peter's Hospital for over 30 years (1978-2011), followed by eight years at Fred Meyer and over two years at Goodwill. His work ethic and commitment to service were evident to all who knew him.
Bart was a passionate individual with a profound love for his family and a strong faith in God, often expressing his spirituality through prayer and the warmth of his home. His famous invitation of "the door is wide open" exemplified his welcoming nature, inviting family and friends to share in the joys of life together.
A fervent believer in the power of prayer, Bart found solace in his faith and sought divine guidance in all aspects of his life. An inspiring figure, he left an undeniable legacy of love, compassion, and service that will resonate within the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He was known for stopping and praying with any military person passing by and thanking them for serving our country.
A devotee of sport, Bart enjoyed soccer and football, as well as being an active member of Lacey SDA Church serving as a Decan for some years, where he fostered connections with his community. He also contributed to Lions Club International and Special Olympics, always seeking to uplift those around him. Bart cultivated a deep appreciation for travel, particularly to Kenya, where he cherished its people, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
His legacy is that of a man who loved deeply and lived fully, exemplifying the values of compassion, generosity, and devotion. The impact of his loving spirit will resonate through generations.
In the spirit of Bart’s life, let us always keep our doors open and our hearts full, remembering the beauty of his presence and the light he brought to this world.
Family, friends, and all who knew Bart are invited to celebrate his life on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., at Lacey SDA Church, 5831 Mullen Road SE, Lacey, WA 98503.
In this time of sorrow, let us remember his unwavering love, and the light he brought to our lives, as he continues to live on in our hearts.
