It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Bridger, who left us on August 16, 2025. Born on February 1, 1947, John lived a life full of great achievements and rich experiences.

John is a renaissance man with a unique blend of eccentricity, intelligence, affability, and magnetic character. He has an inclusive nature, always encouraging us to accept, befriend, and understand all people. His vibrant spirit reminds us to have fun and never lose our youthful exuberance, even as we age. All those who know him are drawn to his boyish charm and simultaneously sophisticated nature. He loves jazz, blues, and understanding how things operated mechanically and chemically. As a younger man he loved the ocean, fishing, running, and playing basketball. In his golden years he loved betting the ponies and long walks around the neighborhood with his beloved dog, Rascal. He can talk about any subject, at any time, with anyone. His wealth of knowledge was fascinating to all who knew him.  He spins a tall tale at times, all the while keeping you at the edge of your seat, waiting for what is next. 

He is a devoted father to his children, Wes Bridger and Michelle Geribo, and relished his role as a grandfather to Poppy Jeanne Geribo in the last half year of his life. His caring son-in-law, Stephen Geribo, has been a significant part of his life in the past 6 years. His former wife, Kathleen Santy, also survives him. John has two nephews, one niece, two grandnieces, one grandnephew, and is preceded in death by his mother Poppy Bridger, his sister Constance Starr, and his father, Henry John Bridger. 

John is not only successful in building a loving family, but also in his professional life. Being a talented chemist, he owned and ran his business for most of his adult life, right up until his final days. Despite his successful career, he often states that the triumphs that stood out the most were those connected to his family.

John's legacy is a rich tapestry of love, hard work, acceptance, and joy. He leaves behind two loving children, a beautiful granddaughter named in honor of his mother, and an enduring family business.

A Celebration of Life for John will be held on October 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM at El Camino Country Club in Oceanside, California. His cremains will be scattered under a tree, per his wishes, at Eternal Hills also in Oceanside, California. John spent the last 35 plus years of his life in Oceanside, with brief stints in Santa Ana, but Oceanside has always been where his heart lives. Rightfully so, he will be laid to rest in the same neighborhood where he lived for decades, with many happy memories.

As we bid our "au revoir" not "adieu" to John, we remember his infectious spirit and the valuable lessons he imparted. Rest in Peace John. You are very loved, very missed, and your memory will live on in our hearts forever.  As John would say, "Don't worry about me! Enjoy your life!"

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