Cecil H. "Bud" Bridges

Cecil H. "Bud" Bridges, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on December 22, 2025, at Richmond Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Richmond, Kansas. Born on December 16, 1937, in Corriganville, Maryland, he was the son of Russell H. and Maryland (Myers) Bridges. Bud led a life filled with dedication to his family, country, and community.

A proud veteran, Bud served in the United States Air Force from January 1955 until August 1, 1977, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. His military service was distinguished, earning him two Air Force Commendations and various medals, including the Presidential Unit Citation, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Following his military career, Bud devoted nine years of his life to working at the Wolfcreek Nuclear Power Plant until August 1986. Afterward, he continued his commitment to serving others by working for USD 290 in Ottawa for thirteen years and is most remembered for his time at Garfield Elementary, known and loved by all as “Mr. Bud” until his retirement in December 2000. His dedication to work and community reflected his strong work ethic and sense of responsibility.

Bud was united in marriage to Doris Ann Lucas on April 6, 1957, in Ottawa, Kansas. Bud's beloved wife Doris survives him at their home. Together, they raised a devoted family, including their daughter, Debra Bridges of Ottawa, and two sons, Brian Bridges (Niki) of Seminole, Florida, and Kevin Bridges (Dana) of Richmond, Kansas. He was a proud grandfather to his seven grandchildren: Raymond Ott-Jensen, Hillary Ott-Jensen, Kendell Ott-Jensen, Maia Valluri, Tessa Bridges, Morgan Bridges, and Madison Bridges.

Throughout his lifetime, Bud cherished the moments spent with his family and engaged in various hobbies. He loved hunting, fishing, woodworking and he took great joy in remodeling around the house. Additionally, Bud had a passion for traveling, which allowed him to create unforgettable memories with his loved ones.

Bud's early years were spent in Corriganville, Maryland, before relocating to various places due to his military service, including Topeka, Kansas; Columbus, Ohio; Alamogordo, New Mexico; Yokoto, Japan; Mercury, Nevada, and ultimately settling in Ottawa, Kansas, in 1977. These experiences enriched his life and allowed him to connect with diverse communities and cultures.

Bud is also survived by his brothers Donald Bridges, John Bridges and James Bridges. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Colleen Riggleman and his brothers Rodger Bridges, Russell Bridges, Ronald Bridges and Samual Bridges.

As we remember Bud, we honor a man whose life was marked by love, strength, and an unwavering commitment to both his family and country. His legacy will surely live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held on December 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Dengel & Son Mortuary, located at 235 S Hickory St, Ottawa, KS. Interment will take place at Highland Cemetery, located at 1050 East 15th Street, Ottawa, KS, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Richmond Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.

To share your memories of Bud or to send a special condolence message to his family, please visit the guestbook below.

Services will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Please click the livestream button to view the service.