GILFORD, NH - Capt. William R. Bridge, 64, of 9 Sargent Place #104, Gilford, died Friday evening, July 11, 2008, at his home. He was born July 30, 1943, in Peabody, MA, the son of the late Merrit "Ray" Bridge and Jane (Soboczinski) Bridge Wisniewski. He had attended Merrimack College, North Andover, MA and was a long time resident of Gilford.
He served in the Army and was stationed in Germany with the 500th Ord Det, and was awarded his sharpshooter badge.
A highly decorated 24 year veteran of the Laconia Police Department, he was promoted to Sergeant in 1977, lieutenant in 1982, and retired in 1989 with the rank of Captain. He also owned and operated Bridges Motel in Weirs Beach until retiring in 1999.
Capt. Bridge was a member of the Retired Police Association, and enjoyed fishing and hunting.
He was the loving father of Jennifer W. Bridge of Gilford, David R. Bridge and Amanda W. Bridge both of Laconia. and is survived by one aunt, Margaret Conlin of Peabody and several cousins. He also leaves behind his cats, Johnny and Paniolo.
Calling hours will be Friday, July 18, 2008, from 10am until noon in the Dewhirst Funeral Home, 1061 Union Ave., Laconia, NH.
His funeral service will be held Saturday, July 19, 2008 at 9 am from the Full-Spychalski Funeral Home, 84 Washington Square East, by Salem Common, Salem, MA followed by a funeral Mass at 10 am at the St. John the Baptist Church, Salem. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Salem. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Police Relief Assoc., 126 New Salem St., Laconia, NH 03246. For on-line condolences and other information, visit www.SalemFuneral.com.