Brydges, Earl.
Passed away Friday, February 1, 2013 in Barrie, Ontario in his 96th year. Earl was born on the family farm near Almonte in the Ottawa Valley on May 7, 1917, the son of Charles and Annie (Irvine) Brydges. He earned his teaching certificate from Ottawa Normal School and started his teaching career in rural elementary schools in 1935. Interrupted by army service 1942-1945, he then furthered his education graduating from Queen’s University, Honours English and History, in 1948. He taught English at Renfrew High School before setting down permanent roots in Barrie in 1952, teaching at Central Collegiate and then teaching at North Collegiate when it opened in 1957. He was principal at North Collegiate from 1962 until his retirement in 1978. He enjoyed semi retirement while continuing to teach English part time at Georgian College. He also tutored English to Hispanic children for 10 years while wintering in Texas in later years. Dad was an avid square dancer well into his 80’s. He enjoyed the close friendships he developed through square dancing and education. He was a member of Trinity Anglican Church from 1952. He enjoyed travelling, taking many trips that included Scandinavia, Europe, Russia, the Caribbean and Hawaii, and many parts of the U.S. and Canada. He is survived by his wife of 64 years Joyce (Throop), daughter Helen Andrews (Gregg), son Graham Brydges (Ruth), grandchildren Caitlin and Carolyn Andrews and Sarah and Allison Brydges and numerous nephews and nieces. He is predeceased by sisters Margaret Boland, Muriel More, Stella Dowdall and brother Orville Brydges, each of whom he loved deeply. He was proud of his extended families. Dad was a gentle man, always patient, accepting, optimistic and grateful for what life had given him.
Family and friends will be received at the Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Homes, 30 Worsley Street, Barrie on Friday, February 15 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The funeral will be held on Saturday, February 16 at 12 p.m. in the chapel of the funeral home followed by an opportunity to socialize with family and friends over light refreshments. Memorial donations can be made in Earl’s name to Trinity Anglican Church, 24 Collier Street, Barrie, L4M 1G8 or to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be left at www.steckleygooderham.com