Leonard (Lenny) Dallas Bridges earned his angel wings Sept. 22, 2017, at the prime age of 68, leaving a lasting footprint in the hearts of many.

Lenny left his legacy by always finding a way to help others. His genuine laughter, bear hug and listening ear will be forever cherished.

Lenny was born in Raymond, Wash. to parents Ilene Bridges (Morgan) and Lowell (Sonny) Bridges. His childhood consisted of playing with his neighborhood friends and three siblings on Weaver Street, in Southfork, along the Willapa River. Little Lenny was a great shot with his shotgun. He was also one of the town’s best little league ball players, and an avid golfer and bowler in his teenage years.

In his adulthood, Lenny ventured into many different job titles, including truck driver, school bus driver, flower shop owner, restaurant owner, radio talk show host, and gillnetter. Lenny graduated alongside his wife, Coleen, with a Masters in Education Degree at Central Washington University in 1992. He worked as a college instructor for local community colleges, and spent 19 years as GED instructor at the Washington State Corrections Center in Shelton, earning respect from his students and colleagues with his unmatched work ethic. Lenny was also a devoted leader and warrior of the Cowlitz people, holding position on the tribal council and various other committees over the years.

Lenny was a devoted family man. He was always early to family gatherings, and loved making everyone laugh with his infectious humor. He had a special connection with each family member and made it a priority to keep in touch with his close friends. He coached his daughters’ fast pitch teams and taught all his children how to fish. He loved playing cards and board games, and was a master in the game of cribbage.

In his retirement, Lenny spent his time at home cooking delicious meals for his wife, watering the yard, organizing family fishing trips, and feeding all the neighborhood cats. He also enjoyed going to the movies and eating at local restaurants. Most currently, he worked as a volunteer Guardian Ad Litem in the local community and stayed an active member of the Cowlitz tribe.

Lenny was a deep and spiritual man and believed in the power and strength of his creator, Jesus Christ. He connected with many human and animal lives here on Earth, and was excited to go to heaven to see those who left before him. He lived each day full of joy, constantly expressing his gratefulness to God for his loving wife, close family and his amazing life. In remembrance of this great man, we will forever try to be a little more like Lenny.

Lenny is preceded in death by both of his parents, Lowell Bridges and Ilene Morgan. He is survived by his three siblings, Lowell (Sonny) Bridges (Kim), Sandy Bridges, Soozy Bridges, wife Coleen (Lomsdalen), daughter Stacey, son Leonard Jacob (Katie), daughter Wendy (Jerad), daughter Charly (James), granddaughter Sophia, grandson Drew, and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are welcome to attend Lenny’s celebration of life, held at: Elks Lodge in Raymond, Wash. on Saturday, Oct. 28, at 3 p.m. Food provided by the Lady of the Elks. Feel free to contribute a side dish or dessert.