Robert Lynough Bridges, Dearborn, MI—It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Lynough Bridges, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach, educator, and community pillar. Affectionately known as "Rocky," Robert passed away on July 30, 2024, at the age of 93. His death marks the end of an era for many in Dearborn, where he was a guiding light for countless students and athletes.
Born on June 19, 1931, Robert was a proud graduate of Fordson High School, class of 1948. He later worked at Ford Motor Company before serving his country in the Korean Conflict, enlisting in the Army in June 1953 and being honorably discharged in August 1955. In August 1956, Robert married Christine (Stonik), the love of his life, and their union lasted for 54 wonderful years until Christine’s passing.
Robert’s career as an educator and coach began in 1956 at Dearborn High School, where he taught mathematics for 42 years and coached Track and Field and Cross Country for an astounding 63 years, until 2019. His commitment to his students and athletes earned him numerous accolades, including being named the Michigan Interscholastic Track Coaches Association Coach of the Year in 1993 and 1995, induction into the Michigan Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1994, the National High School Association Hall of Fame in 2012, and recognition by the City of Dearborn Sport Legends Hall of Fame in 2011.
The track at Dearborn High was named the Robert "Rocky" Bridges Track in 1988, and the field was named in his honor in 2009. His remarkable coaching record includes over 500 track dual meet wins, over 30 league titles, more than 30 All-League titles, and 19 Regional Titles. Robert’s influence extended beyond the track as he also coached football at St. Patrick Catholic High School and cross country at Sacred Heart and Gabriel Richard Catholic High Schools.
Robert is preceded in death by his beloved wife Christine, his parents John and Kathleen Bridges, his brother John H. Bridges, and his sons Timothy and Robert. He is survived by his children Lynn (Scott) Adsit, Michelle Bridges (Philip Petruska), Lea Ann Bridges-Barker (Steve Barker), Thomas (Yvonne) Bridges, and Kristopher (Lisa) Bridges, as well as daughter-in-law Becky (Gilbert) Bridges. He was a loving grandfather to Bob, KC, Nicholas, Calvin, Spenser, Claudia, Christalyn, Nia (Riley), Anderson, Alexander, Jennifer, and Billy. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
A memorial scholarship, the Robert Bridges Memorial Scholarship, has been established by Kris Bridges to honor Robert’s legacy. The scholarship will support graduating students of Dearborn High School, continuing Robert’s lifelong commitment to education and athletics. So far, $100 has been raised out of a $15,000 goal, with donations from anonymous supporters.
Visitation for Robert will be held at Howe Peterson Funeral Home in Dearborn on Thursday, August 8th from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm and Friday, August 9th from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with a rosary at 7:00 pm. The funeral mass will be on Saturday at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Church in Dearborn, celebrating Robert’s life and legacy.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Robert’s family during this difficult time. May his legacy continue to inspire and guide future generations.
Short Summary of Robert Lynough Bridges
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Robert Lynough Bridges |
| Date of Passing | July 30, 2024 |
| Fundraiser Created By | Kris Bridges |
| Goal Amount | $15,000 |
| Amount Raised | $100 |
| Location | Dearborn, MI |
| Purpose | Memorial scholarship for graduating students of Dearborn High School |
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